IEC 61215 Qualification Tests vs Outdoor Performance using Module Level In Situ I-V Curve Tracing Devices

Abstract

Accelerated testing has been recognized as a valuable tool for identifying modules that are prone to early-life failures or excessive degradation. Yet, it is unclear how many of the tests, including IEC 61215, match with reality. The present work performed indoor aging tests based on the IEC standard and compared the current and voltage (I-V) curve results with fielded modules. The in-field modules were installed in a subtropical dessert climate about five years ago. The modules were recently outfitted with in situ I-V curve tracing devices that measured its characteristics at various environmental conditions. The IEC tests tended to decrease current, but the voltage increased, which caused power output to not change. The in-filed modules, on the other hand, experienced a drop in power that was greater than 5% over a 5 year period.