Degradation Evaluation of PV Modules Operating Under Northern Saharan Environment in Algeria

The degradation of Monocrystalline-silicone solar PV modules in Biskra, semi-arid climate, at the north of the Algerian Sahara was studied. As first inspection in this region, the electrical parameters of two PV modules A and B fielded during two different periods, ten and five years respectively, are measured under real climatic conditions and their I-V characteristics were fitted. The standardized I-V characteristics was performed using translation method and compared to their initial I-V characteristics at standard test conditions(STC) given by the manufacturer. The main important parameters of the studied PV modules: short-circuit current Ish, open circuit voltage Voc and maximum power P-max are evaluated and then compared to the STC parameters to estimate their degradation and degradation rates according to their exposure duration. Moreover, other possible defects are explored by visual inspection method. The results show degradation rates of maximum power nearing 1.7 %/ year and 3.6%/ year for the ten and five operating years.