Smart management of photovoltaic plants

Over the last decade, photovoltaic technology has become one of the cornerstones of the global energy transition. This success is largely due to significant cost reductions in manufacturing and installation, alongside proven reliability and modularity. However, far from a technological stabilization of the photovoltaic module technology, it has entered a phase of accelerated development cycles, with a recent transition towards high-efficiency crystalline silicon cell concepts (e.g. Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon), Heterojunction (HJT), Interdigitated Back Contact (IBC), tandem, etc.), larger modules or novel designs (e.g., bifacial), the use of new materials (e.g., anti-reflective and anti-soiling coatings, thinner glass, new encapsulants and backsheets), or an increase in the number and topology of busbars or cables.

Currently, although there is no universally defined useful life for photovoltaic systems, manufacturers generally guarantee performance for 25–30 years, with an expected annual degradation rate of around 0.8%

It should be noted that while recent technological innovations have significantly improved efficiency, they have also given rise to new failure modes and degradation mechanisms, in some cases even compromising system safety. In parallel, cost reductions in manufacturing may have resulted in less stringent quality control of materials and processes. Consequently, abnormal failure modes and accelerated degradation rates are increasingly reported, directly affecting plant operation and maintenance, as well as the overall reliability and profitability of photovoltaic power generation.

With more than two decades of accumulated expertise, CENER is uniquely positioned to develop a value proposition that enhances the management and operation of photovoltaic plants. Over this period, the Photovoltaic Components Laboratory has tested thousands of modules, and, combined with the R&D&I activities of the innovation service, has maintained a leading position in technological knowledge. In recent years, this expertise has translated into numerous projects, including the outsourcing of specialised services and the creation of a spin-off company with proprietary technology. This spin-off, now operating independently, offers defect detection services for photovoltaic modules based on aerial electroluminescence technology (for further information about this company, interested parties can visit the website www.Celsos).

Taking advantage of the previous experience, CENER is currently developing innovative techniques for fault detection in photovoltaic modules and for monitoring their evolution throughout the system’s lifespan. The focus is particularly on new module technologies, enabling early identification of emerging failure modes and optimisation of plant operation. The ultimate goal is maximising electricity generation and reducing operating costs.

The approach focuses on improving existing field inspection methods (such as visible imaging, electroluminescence, and infrared thermography) or designing new techniques, to detect degradation mechanisms that are not yet adequately identified but may even compromise safety. Examples of such damages, which are currently frequent, include glass breakage and junction box failures.

This work directly addresses one of today’s most pressing technological challenges, the rising number of failure modes in crystalline silicon photovoltaic technology

For further information, interested parties can contact CENER https://www.cener.com by email at business@cener.com.