Abstract
The objective of this study was to conduct a reliability analysis on photovoltaic (PV) modules from the oldest PV installation site in Pakistan. Four sets of modules; Type A & B (30 years old), Type C (10 years old), and Type D (35 years old) were identified for this analysis. It has been observed that modules have shown degradation after working for a good number of years in the field. Comparing with nameplate data (available for Type B & C only), a drop of 28.68% and 2.99 percentage points (pp) was observed in the output power (Pmax) and efficiency (Eff.) respectively for Type B, while a drop of 22.21% and 4.05 pp was observed in Pmax and Eff. respectively for Type C. A greater drop in ISC and Pmax was observed in Type B, which is attributed to severe browning of EVA in them. While the greater drop in Pmax, in case of Type C, is attributed to the poor quality of materials used. Amongst the different defects observed, the junction box defects which include cracking and embrittlement, etc., and backsheet defects which include discoloration, delamination and cracking, etc. were found in all four types of modules. Other defects include browning of EVA, observed in Type B and D, and corrosion of frame and electrical wires, found in Type A, B, and D. This first-ever study will provide valuable information in understanding the degradation mechanism and henceforth, improving the long term reliability of PV modules in the humid-subtropical conditions of Pakistan.
Highlights
The use of photovoltaic (PV) modules throughout the world is increasing exponentially
To understand the percentage occurrence of the defects, we look at Type A modules in Fig 1, where the junction box defects are 22%, backsheet defects are 45%, frame defects are 22% and front glass soiling is 11%
Photovoltaic (PV) modules working in the field for 10–35 years in Islamabad, Pakistan were taken and studied for degradation and defects
Summary
The use of photovoltaic (PV) modules throughout the world is increasing exponentially. This is because of abundantly and freely available solar energy resource, the environmental friendly nature of PV module, and its ability to be used both as off-grid and on-grid systems [1,2,3,4,5,6]. Amongst the different renewable energy resources, currently, solar energy is the third most widely used resource in the world. MCM20200102), China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (No 2020M670074), Beijing Municipal Commission of Education Foundation (No KM201910005025)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
