Are service lifetime and degradation models suitable for PV modules?

The latest scientific work shows that service lifetime and degradation models for PV modules are of specific use if they combine different modelling approaches and include know-how and modelling parameters of the most relevant degradation effects.

How to predict the service lifetime of PV modules?

To evaluate and predict the service lifetime of PV modules in real-world operating conditions, mathematical approaches are usually utilized , , . Physical and statistical methods have been commonly used and recently machine learning approaches are being applied.

What is the end-of-life of a PV module?

An overview of potential module failures, influencing factors and effects can be found in a previous report of IEA PVPS Task 13 . End-of-life is defined differently for PV modules, depending on the specific context or issue. The end-of-life is typically dependent on the use of the PV module and the specific conditions of the PV power plant.

What is the lifetime of a PV module?

Therefore, in the manufacturers’ context, the lifetime of a PV module is often defined as the time required for a PV module to lose its initial STC power by 20% (so-called degradation limit) . For outdoor degradation evaluations, statistical methods are commonly used.

How does a photovoltaic power plant affect economic success?

The economic success of photovoltaic (PV) power plants depends crucially on their lifetime energy yield. Degradation effects and the total lifetime directly influence the produced elec-tricity and therefore the cash flow, which also impacts the levelized costs of energy (LCOE) and therefore the profitability of the power plant.

Do photovoltaic systems need maintenance?

The expansion of photovoltaic systems emphasizes the crucial requirement for effective operations and maintenance, drawing insights from advanced maintenance approaches evident in the wind industry. This review systematically explores the existing literature on the management of photovoltaic operation and maintenance.