A preliminary study of common defects of photovoltaic modules in West Timor, Indonesia

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) modules deployed outdoor are exposed to various environmental conditions which can contribute to degrade their power output. Visual inspection is well known as an initial method commonly applied to assess degradation modes of PV modules. By applying the method, it was found that the modules installed on eight off-grid solar power systems in West Timor, Indonesia experienced several degradation modes such as delamination, discoloration, snail trails, microcracks, corrosion, and soiling. These types of degradation are likely attributed to the high temperature, humidity, and salinity level in the region. The degraded panels are still operating to provide electricity for the community in these areas. However, it can be predicted that the energy produced is not optimal as healthy PV modules. Further research needs to be carried out to assess relationship of the degradation modes and their effect to the value of electrical parameters of the modules.