A combined approach for assessment the functionality of photovoltaic modules in real-world operation

Abstract

The energy production from the solar photovoltaic power plants is highly dependent on the meteorological and physical conditions such as solar radiation, ambient and panel's surface temperature, inclination of the photovoltaic (PV) panel construction etc. The I-V curves are the most important for estimation the functionality and production of each PV panel, as well as finding the maximum power point (MPP) of it. Because of the continuous generation of energy, the silicon crystal of the PV modules begins to depreciate and this decreases the energy production. In real-world operating conditions, revealing the energy state of the PV panels is the main point for estimating the PV panels' efficiency. Furthermore, one complete approach, including electrical measurements and temperature distribution information over the PV panels' surface, can reveal the risky elements (subcells) and provide data for prevention damages and working interruptions. This paper presents a method for PV monitoring in which conventional electrical instrumentation devises and thermographic camera are used, in order to estimate the real physical state of the PV panels'.