lf photovoltaic solar cells and modules are to be used as a major source of power generation it is important to have a good knowledge and understanding of their long-term performance under different climatic and operating conditions. A number of studies of the long-term performance of commercially available photovoltaic modules manufactured using different technologies have now been reported in the literature. These have shown clear differences in the seasonal and long term performance and stability. These studies are reviewed, with particular emphasis on performances in climates typical of the Asia-Pacific region.In addition to general module engineering factors that result in a loss of performance in all modules some types of solar cells, such as those made from thin film amorphous silicon (a-Si:H), also suffer specific losses in performance due to fundamental material changes, such as photodegradation or the Staebler-Wronski effect (SWE). A field evaluation of the long term performance of state-of-the-art crystalline and amorphous silicon photovoltaic modules in Australian conditions is currently being undertaken at Murdoch U Diversity. The initial results from this monitoring program are reported. This paper also reports on laboratory and field studies being undertaken on the nature of the Staebler-Wronski effect in amorphous silicon solar cells and how the stability of these cells is affected by different operating conditions. Based on a mechanism for the SWE in a-Si:H solar cells developed as a result of our research we propose a number of possible ways to reduce the Staebler-Wronski effect in a-Si:H solar cells.
This study concentrates on finding a possible method of annealing amorphous silicon solar modules degraded by prolonged exposure to light. The aim of annealing is the recovery of initial efficiency. This should be done on the module's work site or through simple indoor maintenance. Ideally the annealing temperature should be as low as possible and the annealing time as short as possible. The annealing process of laboratory cells and commercially available triple junction solar modules was performed at temperatures 70 ºC -110 ºC. The degree of efficiency recovery as a function of temperature and time of exposure to heating was investigated. The influence of factors affecting the rate of degradation and recovery such as short-circuiting, work under load or exposure to light, were also taken into account.
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