Assessing the performance of photovoltaic modules

In a first of its kind study in India, scientists from Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB) and National Institute of Solar Energy, New Delhi, conducted a detailed survey at 51 locations across India to check for the degradation in the performance of photovoltaic modules. This study, aimed to establish the reliability of these modules, could help India achieve the ambitious dream of 100 GW of solar energy by 2022. Researchers observed that photovoltaic modules degraded faster in hot places, on rooftops, and in installations of smaller size.

Cold climates ideal

Investment in solar energy in India is large and it is essential to evaluate the long-term performance of photovoltaic modules, since the energy yield over the years would determine the return on investment. Hot climate may cause yellowing and failure in solder joints, and improper handling of modules may cause micro-cracks in solar cells.

Such degradation causes energy yield to reduce. “The important thing is not just how much power is installed (GW), but how much energy (GW-hr or kWh) the photovoltaic modules generate over the estimated 25 years of their life. If the modules degrade more rapidly than expected, they will …read more