A new method for the spectral characterisation of PV modules

Abstract

This paper presents a new characterisation method for the spectral influence of solar irradiation on photovoltaic (PV) modules, based on a proposed analytical model for the effective responsivity of PV modules. This mathematical tool needs only easily measurable atmospheric parameters and is applicable to different technologies. It allows the calculation of the spectral influence on PV modules under field conditions. It has been observed that this influence depends strongly on sky conditions and also on the PV module tilt angle, its technology, and the time of the year. Opposite effects are observed between cloudy and clear sky conditions, concluding that the former especially favours PV conversion in amorphous silicon modules. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.