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Real-Time Series Resistance Monitoring in PV Systems Without the Need for I-V Curves

Journal Article · · IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics
 [1];  [1];  [1];  [1]
  1. National Renewable Energy Lab. (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
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We apply the physical principles of a familiar method, suns-Voc, to a new application: the real-time detection of series resistance changes in modules and systems operating outside. The real-time series resistance (RTSR) method that we describe avoids the need for collecting I-V curves or constructing full series resistance-free I-V curves. RTSR is most readily deployable at the module level on microinverters or module-integrated electronics, but it can also be extended to full strings. We found that automated detection of series resistance increases can provide early warnings of some of the most common reliability issues, which also pose fire risks, including broken ribbons, broken solder bonds, and contact problems in the junction or combiner box. We also describe the method in detail and describe a sample application to data collected from modules operating in the field.
Research Organization:
National Renewable Energy Lab. (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Solar Energy Technologies Office (EE-4S)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC36-08GO28308
OSTI ID:
1233691
Report Number(s):
NREL/JA--5J00-64382
Journal Information:
IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics, Journal Name: IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics Journal Issue: 6 Vol. 5; ISSN 2156-3381
Publisher:
IEEECopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

References (9)

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  • Forsyth, M. Keith; Mahaffey, Matthew; Blum, Adrienne L.
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conference June 2014
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Figures / Tables (4)

Fig. 1(p. 1)figure Fig. 1
Fig. 2(p. 2)figure Fig. 2
Fig. 3(p. 3)figure Fig. 3
Fig. 4(p. 3)figure Fig. 4

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Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
monitoring
photovoltaic
reliability
series resistance