Behnam Lotfi, Director of the Industrial Inspection Division at the Iran Standards and Quality Inspection Company (ISQI), highlighted the importance of inspection and quality control in solar and wind power plants during the 15th International Exhibition of Renewable Energy and Electric Energy Efficiency. He also raised two major concerns regarding inspection in this industry.
Lotfi stated:
“As a leading inspection company, we are present at this exhibition not only to showcase our services but also to share the concerns we have observed in the field of inspection—especially in solar power plants. The two main issues we face in this sector include the type of inspections carried out during construction and equipment procurement, as well as the lack of attention to inspection and quality control during the installation and operational phases.”
He categorized inspection activities into three main types:
- inspection within the supply chain and during the manufacturing of equipment and materials,
- inspection during installation and commissioning, and
- post-operation inspection.
Lotfi pointed out the insufficient attention paid by power plant owners to complementary inspections during installation, pre-commissioning, and periodic inspections after operation. He added:
“These shortcomings can lead to reduced efficiency in the actual performance of power plants and may also result in accidents and serious operational problems.”
The ISQI Industrial Inspection Director also addressed concerns about the nature of inspections within the supply chain of components and equipment. He explained:
“Based on ongoing project records, inspections in this industry have practically been reduced to non-quality inspections, such as visual checks and simple counting. During the equipment manufacturing process and factory acceptance tests, no technical supervision from our inspectors or specialists is requested. This is deeply concerning, as the lack of effective oversight can significantly reduce the quality of procured equipment.”
In conclusion, Behnam Lotfi expressed hope that stronger measures and requirements will be enforced by decision-making authorities regarding inspection and oversight in renewable energy projects. This, he stated, is essential to prevent the country from becoming a ‘graveyard of solar panels’ in the coming years and to protect the investments made in this sector.
He also emphasized the vital role of hosting international exhibitions within the country and the growth of the renewable industry in improving environmental conditions, addressing energy imbalances, and enhancing electricity efficiency. As always, he reiterated that inspection is not a cost—it is a smart investment.
