Metrology to support the optimisation of large-scale efficient dependable photovoltaic systems

To offset the worst effects of climate change the European Union (EU), through its Green Deal, is increasing the use of renewable sources to become carbon neutral by 2050. Photovoltaic (PV) systems which convert sunlight to electricity are essential to this objective. These systems are composed of multiple components including photovoltaic modules, power optimisers, inverters, and transformers. Interactions between components and the environment influences both performance and system degradation. The solar industry uses two key indicators to determine these factors ‘Performance Ratio’ (PR) and ‘Performance Loss Rate’ (PLR), however there are no methods to quantify measurement uncertainty for these which can increase risks, failures, and maintenance costs, creating a barrier to investments and trade.

Previous projects Photoclass, PV-Enerate, and Metro-PV focused on metrology at the PV cell and module level. This project will extend this to the system level, reducing the uncertainties associated with the key indicators. Common installations such as rooftop, tracker and bifacial systems will be investigated and high-quality reference systems developed accompanied with metrological digital twin models to provide detailed and accurate data. The information gathered will contribute to a new classification for PV reference device performance. This work, along with new calibration services and good practice guides, will allow the solar industry a greater knowledge of the performance and lifetime of its products.  

In turn this will promote increased investment and deployment of this technology - essential for both European energy security and realising EU targets for reduced greenhouse gas emissions.