Evaluating Performance and Degradation of Bifacial Fields: Approach and Case Study
This presentation cover results of four years of bifacial technology performance and degradation study, presented at the bifiPV 2024.
bifacial↗
Engineering topics
Kern, Dana
Publications and source records attributed to Kern, Dana.
Developments for Novel Module Architecture for Lower CapEx and Improved Recyclability for c-Si PV Modules
Photovoltaic (PV) energy production is currently increasing at a significant rate. A novel module architecture has been demonstrated that has potential for reducing manufacturing cost while improving module reliability and recycling for c-Si PV which utilizes an edge-seal. Referred to as Edge Sealed Module (ESM), this architecture eliminates the vacuum lamination process and cross-linked encapsulants on the interior of the module. Functioning prototypes of c-Si have been fabricated for stress testing in collaboration with National Renewable Energy Laboratories (NREL). These modules are being tested and compared to traditionally manufactured modules. Based on preliminary results, this module architecture is a potentially viable solution for improving the manufacturing cost and recyclability of PV modules while enhancing module performance.
costs↗
BEST Field Degradation Research
Data for control and 5-year fielded bifacial modules of PERC and SHJ technologies, including IV Curves, EQE, EL and PL, for degradation and performance studies.
14 SOLAR ENERGY↗
Continuous flash sublimation of inorganic halide perovskites: overcoming rate and continuity limitations of vapor deposition
Continuous Flash Sublimation (CFS) is a vapor deposition technique that shows commercially relevant deposition rates, is amenable to continuous operation, and exceeds previously reported efficiencies for the same material class.
14 SOLAR ENERGY↗
Bifacial Photovoltaic Module Degradation Dynamics
In a comprehensive study conducted at NREL's 75 kW bifacial single-axis-tracked field, accelerated degradation was observed in four out of five bifacial silicon photovoltaic (PV) module technologies when compared to their monofacial counterparts. Root cause analysis of accelerated bifacial degradation involved various analytical tools and techniques. This included employing RdTools to identify rates of power loss, conducting measurements on fielded and control modules using infrared imaging, electroluminescence (EL) and photoluminescence (PL), quantum efficiency (QE) analysis, IV-curves assessment, as well as utilizing handheld Raman and reflectance measurement targeted at anti-reflective coating. Most cases pointed to carrier lifetime degradation causing Voc loss and simultaneous Isc loss. In some cases, Isc further decreases likely due to optical effects from encapsulant degradation. The outcomes and methodologies employed in this investigation are documented in this publication. This study's significance is further emphasized by placing the findings within the broader context of the performance and degradation of various bifacial systems, as identified in the PV Fleets data.
bifacial↗
Novel Module Architecture for Lower CapEx and Improved Recyclability for c-Si PV Modules
Photovoltaic (PV) energy production is currently increasing at a rate at which recycling is becoming necessary. A novel module architecture has been demonstrated that has potential for high value recycling for c-Si PV. This architecture eliminates the vacuum lamination process and cross-linked en capsulants. Functioning prototypes of c-Si have been fabricated for stress testing in collaboration with NREL. These modules are being tested against traditionally manufactured modules. Based on preliminary results, this module architecture is a potentially viable solution for improving the manufacturing cost and recyclability of PV modules while retaining module performance.
computer architecture↗
Silicon Heterojunction Field Performance
The market share of silicon heterojunction (SHJ) modules are expected to increase in the following years. The presentation discusses field performance of SHJ and compares it to other high-efficiency modules. In-depth materials characterization is used to understand the origins of degradation in these type of modules.
ENGINEERING,SOLAR ENERGY↗