Photovoltaic (PV) modules have been a reliable source of energy, aiding the world in a shift towards decarbonization. However, the continuous evolution of PV technologies presents new questions concerning their future reliability. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) proactively addresses these concerns by identifying the potential reliability impacts of emerging PV technologies.
In a landmark review, NREL researchers published an article in the IEEE Journal of Photovoltaic that anticipates the effects of new PV modules on their dependability. The article, part of the Durable Module Materials (DuraMAT) Consortium‘s efforts, also recommends areas for further research to enhance reliability standards and testing methodologies. Teresa Barnes, an NREL scientist and leader of the DuraMAT Consortium, emphasizes the importance of forecasting and mitigating possible reliability risks associated with novel module materials and designs.
Linking Research to Market Trends in PV Technology
To bridge the gap between academic research and market practicalities in the PV industry, NREL’s study combines insights from market reports, expert interviews, and scholarly articles. Jarett Zuboy, an analyst at NREL, elaborates on the synergy created through extensive dialogue with industry experts and peers, which helped shape their thorough review.
Decoding the Impact of Advancements in PV Module Technologies
After rigorous analysis, NREL’s researchers identified 11 key technological trends across four main categories—module architecture, interconnects, bifacial technology, and cell technology. The study takes an in-depth look at each trend, focusing on their drivers, projected deployment, reliability impact, and current mitigation strategies alongside the necessity for further exploration.
An example explored in the research is the shift from monofacial to bifacial module designs. This trend poses new challenges and necessitates specialized potential-induced degradation tests. Elizabeth Palmiotti, an NREL materials scientist, underlines the requirement for extensive reliability studies in response to the use of thinner glass and novel encapsulant materials.
The Importance of Cyclical Research for Advancing Module Reliability
Changes in PV technology can have varying effects on module reliability. To manage these complex and interrelated technological advancements, NREL recommends a cyclical research approach. This process starts with the introduction of new designs and extends through reliability assessment steps such as field diagnostics, accelerated testing, and standards development, collectively contributing to the improvement of module performance and reliability.
While the focus of the published work is on crystalline silicon modules, NREL is broadening its research to include thin-film technologies. Martin Springer, another NREL researcher, stresses the value of predictive models and ongoing research in swiftly identifying and solving potential reliability issues before they become widespread market problems.
With NREL researchers at the helm, the field of photovoltaics is set to navigate the complexities of technological innovations while maintaining high standards of module reliability, ensuring that solar energy remains a viable and enduring part of our clean energy future.
