Survey of Module Tests Executed by the Joint Research Centre of the EC According to EUR Specifications 101 and 501 (502)

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is the presentation of performance and qualification test results of about 70 sets of modules covering different design concepts: these tests were executed over the past 3 years using the ESTI facilities at the JRC. The results reflect the status of pv technology and demonstrate which kind of defects may be revealed if one applies EUR procedures 101 and 501 (502): defects are classified by provoking stress and type of defect observed. We believethat the information accumulated so far may serve as a reference base for a realistic assessment of future achievements in pv technology. The results are used to define minimum requirements for modules used in EC-funded projects. They serve also as a comparison between laboratory test methods and long term outdoor field testing: under this aspect this action is complementary to our pv plant monitoring programme. In order to facilitate this comparison we have added an energy rating procedure based on a set of energy response functions obtained under outdoor conditions and converted to standard day conditions.