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Review of Potential–Induced Degradation in Bifacial Photovoltaic Modules

Journal Article · · Energy Technology
 [1];  [2];  [3];  [4];  [5];  [3];  [6];  [4];  [4];  [7];  [3];  [4]
  1. University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL (United States); University of Central Florida - Florida Solar Energy Center
  2. University of North Carolina at Charlotte, NC (United States)
  3. Arizona State University, Mesa, AZ (United States)
  4. University of Central Florida, Cocoa, FL (United States)
  5. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
  6. Pordis LLC, Austin, TX (United States)
  7. First Solar Inc., Tempe, AZ (United States)
Bifacial modules are increasingly deployed in the field and are expected to represent half of the market share within 10 years. Their rear structure differs from monofacial modules to allow additional light absorption. However, it brings new reliability challenges to address. In particular, the risk of potential-induced degradation (PID) is increased as both module sides are impacted. Different PID processes have been identified in the literature: shunting type (PID-s), polarization type (PID-p), Na penetration type, and corrosion type (PID-c). Their occurrence depends on the photovoltaic system configuration as well as the module's materials. Apart from PID-s, PID processes are not well understood and extensive research is needed to elucidate the PID scenario and underlying mechanisms. Herein, current knowledge about PID processes and their impact on the main bifacial modules in the market are gathered with the aim to guide future research. Bifacial module technologies and leakage current paths leading to PID are described. Indoor and outdoor PID testing methods are detailed. For each bifacial module technology, the PID processes are investigated with their indicators, mechanism and recovery process. Furthermore, PID-impacting factors and limitation solutions are finally reported and a state of the art on PID modeling is presented.
Research Organization:
University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Renewable Power Office. Solar Energy Technologies Office
Grant/Contract Number:
EE0009345
OSTI ID:
2397274
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 2503477
OSTI ID: 1959074
OSTI ID: 1983392
Journal Information:
Energy Technology, Journal Name: Energy Technology Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 11; ISSN 2194-4288
Publisher:
WileyCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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