Photovoltaic panel transmittance test method

Can spectral transmittance and particle size distribution predict PV soiling losses?

The spectral transmittance and the particle size distribution (PSD) of the soiling was compared in order to find correlations that could be universally valid, and that could open possibilities to modelling PV soiling losses through the optical characterization of dust.

What is the difference between visible transmittance and visible reflectance?

Visible transmittance (τv) and visible reflectance (ρv) refer to the ratio of the beam of visible light vertically incident on a glass surface to the incident beam of transmitted light or reflected light.

Do coatings change the transmittance spectra?

The soiling ratio, the shape of the relative transmittance spectra and the fit to IEST-STD-CC 1246 standard will all be altered by coatings. Future work should therefore examine the spectral characteristics of the transmittance and the particle size distribution for coated and uncoated glass under the same environmental conditions.

What is the failure rate of a PV module?

Failure rates of this test remain in the range 10-20%. Robustness of terminations: is a mechanical test. To determine the robustness of the module’s terminations, which can be wires, flying leads, screws, or as for the majority of the cases: PV connectors (Type C).

What are the optical aspects of PV soiling?

For the optical aspects of PV soiling that include particle composition, the more rigorous approach of Piedra et al. 32, 33 can be employed, for example by utilizing the real and imaginary parts of the refractive index of the particles.

How does the VLT of STPV affect energy consumption?

First, annual energy consumption increased by 19,501 kWh as the VLT of STPV increased from 10% to 30%. This is because, as the VLT of STPV increases, cooling energy significantly increases as the solar heat gain through the window during summer increases since SHGC tends to increase. In winter, heating energy decreases as the VLT of STPV increases.