A Case Study: How an ITA Ensured the Success of a Large-Scale Solar Project

Reading time: ~12–14 minutes

Key takeaway: Engaging an Independent Technical Advisor (ITA) during planning, construction, and commissioning can be the difference between a successful, high-performing solar project and one that struggles with delays, underperformance, and cost overruns.

A Case Study: How an ITA Ensured the Success of a Large-Scale Solar Project

Introduction

Large-scale solar projects promise clean energy and attractive returns—but reality often tells a different story. Without proper oversight, even well-funded projects can face delays, underperformance, and costly disputes. This is the problem many investors and developers encounter: the technical complexity of solar farms hides risks that only surface during construction or operation.

This is where the solution comes in. A Case Study: How an ITA Ensured the Success of a Large-Scale Solar Project demonstrates how an Independent Technical Advisor provided impartial technical oversight, challenged assumptions, verified construction quality, and ensured that the project delivered performance as promised.

Summary Box

In this article, you will learn:

• What role an ITA plays in large-scale solar projects

• Key technical and operational challenges faced by solar developers

• How proactive oversight mitigates risk

• Step-by-step actions taken to secure project success

• Why A Case Study: How an ITA Ensured the Success of a Large-Scale Solar Project provides a blueprint for investor confidence

Understanding the ITA Role

An Independent Technical Advisor is a neutral expert engaged to protect investors’ and lenders’ interests. They:

• Do not build the project

• Do not sell equipment

• Have no financial stake in approvals

Instead, they verify designs, challenge assumptions, inspect construction, oversee commissioning, and ensure operational readiness. This is the foundation of A Case Study: How an ITA Ensured the Success of a Large-Scale Solar Project.

Common Challenges in Large-Scale Solar Projects

Large solar farms face technical and operational risks such as:

• Inaccurate energy yield projections

• Equipment underperformance

• Construction defects

• Scheduling conflicts

• Grid connection delays

• Incomplete testing and commissioning

An ITA mitigates these risks through early and ongoing independent oversight.

The Project Background

• Size: 150 MWp

• Location: Malaysia

• Timeline: 18 months from groundbreaking to commercial operation

• Developer: Independent solar development company

• Financing: Multi-lender project with equity and debt components

Investors and lenders required confidence that the project would meet promised performance and revenue forecasts.

How the ITA Ensured Success

1. Pre-Construction Planning Oversight

• Reviewed energy yield models

• Verified site surveys and environmental constraints

• Assessed EPC proposals and risk management plans

This early involvement prevented unrealistic assumptions and ensured the project plan was technically sound.

2. Design Review and Validation

• Checked system layout and electrical designs

• Reviewed protection and safety systems

• Verified compliance with local grid codes

Ensured designs aligned with performance guarantees and operational requirements.

3. Construction Quality Assurance

• Conducted regular site inspections

• Monitored equipment installation and materials quality

• Documented non-conformances and tracked corrective actions

Prevented defects that could have caused delays or long-term performance issues.

4. Schedule Monitoring

• Verified actual progress against reported milestones

• Flagged potential bottlenecks

• Recommended schedule adjustments where necessary

This helped manage contractor expectations and avoided costly delays.

5. Testing and Commissioning Oversight

• Witnessed performance tests and acceptance criteria

• Verified inverter and system functionality

• Ensured grid compliance and safety procedures

This step confirmed that the plant would meet expected energy output before handover.

6. Risk Mitigation and Documentation

• Maintained a risk register

• Documented actions and corrective measures

• Provided reports to investors and lenders

This transparency built confidence and mitigated future disputes.

7. Early Operational Support

• Tracked initial energy generation

• Monitored O&M effectiveness

• Provided recommendations to optimize output

Early guidance ensured smooth transition from construction to steady operation.

Key Results Achieved

• Project completed on schedule

• Energy generation matched financial model projections

• Minimal defects and rework required

• Investor and lender confidence secured

• Long-term operational performance optimized

This is a clear demonstration of A Case Study: How an ITA Ensured the Success of a Large-Scale Solar Project.

Lessons Learned

• Early ITA involvement prevents assumptions from becoming reality problems

• Independent oversight identifies hidden risks during construction

• Proper documentation and reporting builds investor trust

• Commissioning is critical—without proper testing, guarantees are meaningless

Conclusion and Call to Action

Independent Technical Advisors are not optional—they are essential for large-scale solar projects. A Case Study: How an ITA Ensured the Success of a Large-Scale Solar Project shows how impartial technical oversight, rigorous inspections, and proactive risk management protect investment, ensure performance, and deliver confidence to lenders and investors alike.

If you are planning, financing, or overseeing a large-scale solar project and want independent technical assurance, don’t wait until issues arise. 📞 Call or WhatsApp 0133006284 today to ensure your project is set up for success from start to finish.