Case Study: The Microcracking Headache

The Challenge

Microcracking - invisible damage to the crystalline structure of solar panels - is one of the most prevalent issues facing solar assets today. These microscopic cracks can occur during manufacturing, transportation, installation, or from environmental stressors like hail and strong winds. Traditional insurance policies require electroluminescence (EL) imaging to verify damage, forcing owners to test panels individually at hundreds of dollars per module. This creates significant upfront expenses and operational disruptions, often making claims impractical to pursue.

The Solution: Simplified Coverage

kWh Analytics developed an innovative approach that eliminates the need for costly panel-by-panel testing:

  • Coverage triggered by visible damage indicators

  • Entire strings covered when damage threshold is met

  • No upfront testing costs

How It Works

The kWh Analytics Microcracking Endorsement is simplified coverage. When as few as three panels in a string are visibly damaged, all panels in the affected string are automatically covered and replaced, with no individual panel testing required.

The Takeaway

By removing barriers to effective microcracking coverage, kWh Analytics delivers comprehensive protection without the burden of expensive testing or operational disruptions. This innovative approach makes microcracking coverage more accessible and practical for solar asset owners, helping to address one of the industry's most common challenges.