Solar projects are often discussed in terms of photovoltaic modules and inverters. However, their long-term performance also depends on less visible electrical infrastructure.

Tamira works across electrical systems, automation and panel assembly. The company is an official ABB distributor and authorized panel builder in Georgia.

In an interview with renewables.GE, Chief Operating Officer Avtandil Mamaladze discusses equipment selection, electrical safety and the importance of considering lifetime performance rather than initial price alone.

The electrical infrastructure behind solar

renewables.GE: Tamira works across electrical systems, automation and panel assembly. How did solar projects become part of the company’s work?

Avtandil Mamaladze: Renewable energy has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in Georgia. As the official ABB distributor and an authorized panel builder in Georgia, Tamira helps customers develop safe and reliable solar projects using trusted electrical technologies.

Solar plants require more than modules and inverters. They also need properly designed systems for connection, protection, control and monitoring. These areas are closely connected to Tamira’s existing engineering and panel-assembly work.

renewables.GE: What types of electrical components and solutions does Tamira usually provide for solar projects?

Avtandil Mamaladze: We supply the electrical equipment that connects and protects the entire solar system.

This includes electrical panels, switchgear, protection devices, monitoring systems and custom-built control panels. We work with ABB and other established European manufacturers. Our engineers also help customers select the right equipment for the technical requirements of each project.

renewables.GE: Solar discussions often focus on panels and inverters. Which less visible components are just as important?

Avtandil Mamaladze: Protection devices, cables and monitoring systems are all essential.

Even high-quality solar panels cannot operate reliably without the correct electrical infrastructure. These components help keep the plant safe, identify faults and support stable performance over time.

Safety and long-term reliability

renewables.GE: Why are protection devices, switchgear and electrical panels important for the safety and long-term operation of a solar plant?

Avtandil Mamaladze: These components protect the system against electrical faults and help prevent damage to equipment.

They also make maintenance safer and can reduce unexpected downtime. Properly selected and certified products contribute to a longer and more reliable operating life for the solar plant.

renewables.GE: What problems can result from incorrect component selection, sizing or installation?

Avtandil Mamaladze: Even relatively small design or installation errors can have significant consequences.

They may lead to equipment failures, safety risks, higher maintenance costs and lower overall system performance. Proper engineering and professional installation are therefore important at every stage of an electrical project.

renewables.GE: What should project developers consider when comparing certified equipment with lower-cost alternatives?

Avtandil Mamaladze: Price is only one part of the overall investment.

Certified, high-quality equipment offers documented performance, compliance with relevant standards, clearer warranty conditions and comprehensive technical documentation.

Lower-cost alternatives may reduce initial expenditure, but they can also increase operational risks and maintenance costs over the lifetime of the project. Developers should compare not only purchase prices, but also reliability, service life, technical support and the possible cost of downtime.

Designing and testing electrical panels

renewables.GE: How does Tamira approach the design, assembly and testing of electrical panels for individual projects?

Avtandil Mamaladze: Every project is different, so we design each panel according to the customer’s specific technical requirements.

We use certified components from ABB and other established manufacturers, follow strict quality procedures and test every panel before delivery. Depending on the project, our engineers may also provide technical support during installation and commissioning.

renewables.GE: What mistakes do you most often see when companies prepare equipment lists for solar projects?

Avtandil Mamaladze: One common mistake is focusing mainly on price without giving enough attention to engineering quality, component compatibility, protection requirements and long-term reliability.

Equipment should not be selected as a list of separate products. The components must operate together as one electrical system. Good planning and engineering at the beginning help prevent expensive problems later.

Documentation, warranties and technical support

renewables.GE: What practical advantages come from working with an official manufacturer partner, particularly regarding documentation, warranties and technical support?

Avtandil Mamaladze: As an official ABB distributor, Tamira provides genuine products with full technical documentation, manufacturer warranties and access to specialist expertise.

Customers also benefit from local engineering support during equipment selection, installation, commissioning and future maintenance. This can make the entire process easier, particularly when a project requires troubleshooting, changes or replacement components.

renewables.GE: What advice would you give a Georgian solar company before it purchases electrical components for a new project?

Avtandil Mamaladze: Choose quality rather than simply selecting the lowest price.

Companies should work with established manufacturers and experienced engineering partners that can support the project from design and installation through to operation and maintenance.

This interview was provided by Avtandil Mamaladze, Chief Operating Officer of Tamira. The responses were edited for clarity and language.