IBC Solar’s own-brand modules show promising results in a LeTID test conducted by the Fraunhofer Centre for Silicon Photovoltaics CSP. Specifically, the research institution examined the loss of power of the solar modules in the event of sustained strong incidence of light or high temperatures. All of the IBC Solar modules selected by Fraunhofer CSP are characterised by low degradation and successfully completed the test procedure.
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At the end of last year, Fraunhofer CSP examined all current IBC Solar module types with regards to susceptibility to light and elevated temperature-induced degradation (LeTID). LeTID is triggered by excess charge carriers, caused either by illumination or by electric current at temperatures above 50°C. In susceptible modules, this leads to a power loss of up to 10 per cent, affecting PERC solar cells in particular. At the Fraunhofer Centre, this susceptibility to degradation has been intensively researched in recent years.
Withstanding extreme conditions and performing with low power loss
For the current investigation, Fraunhofer CSP randomly selected four PERC modules each from IBC Solar's own brand. In the course of the test, the modules were exposed to different conditions and temperatures in a climate chamber over a longer period of time. In order to simulate the most realistic environmental conditions possible for the continuous use of PERC modules, the module temperature must be at least 75°C and the humidity must be 10 per cent, while the modules are subjected to a defined current flow. The minimum test time is 324 hours (approximately 2 weeks). IBC Solar's PERC modules withstood the extreme conditions and performed with low power loss. This result proves the very low degradation that IBC Solar's own brand modules exhibit over their entire lifetime.
Long-term quality standards in the photovoltaic sector
The globally valid test specification IEC TS 63342, which IBC Solar was involved in developing at an early stage, serves as the basis for the test. The main concern of all those involved was and is to ensure long-term quality standards in the photovoltaic sector. (mfo)
