How to reduce the degradation of photovoltaic systems?

The degradation of photovoltaic (PV) systems is one of the key factors to address in order to reduce the cost of the electricity produced by increasing the operational lifetime of PV systems. To reduce the degradation, it is imperative to know the degradation and failure phenomena.

Do we need to review PV failures and degradation?

The need to review PV failures and degradation has encouraged researchers to engage in comprehensive research investigating and analysing experiments and real-world industry studies available in the literature. Köntges et al. reviewed PV failures based on their emergence in the operational life cycle.

Do PV systems suffer from power degradation?

The level of power degradation in PV systems is not well understood, so this will be a unique investigation into the defects that prevail in these systems. Previous papers, particularly in the UK, have reviewed the degradation of PV systems in the past couple of years.

How to analyze degradation mechanisms of photovoltaic (PV) modules?

The analysis of degradation mechanisms of photovoltaic (PV) modules is key to ensure its current lifetime and the economic feasibility of PV systems. Field operation is the best way to observe and detect all type of degradation mechanisms.

Does thermal defects affect PV degradation rate?

The PV degradation of two PV installations with 19.25 and 8.59% thermal defects was investigated. When the PV asset is affected by higher thermal defects, it is found to have a higher degradation rate.

Why do PV modules have abnormal degradation rates?

For instance, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) developed accelerated stress tests to examine degradation rates, validating the superior quality and long-term reliability of PV modules . However, despite these measures, there are still reports of abnormal degradation rates in PV modules due to a variety of failures.