Analysis and Performance Improvement of Cells and Modules
PV modules are used in a wide range of applications and operating environments. To fully understand their performance, testing under real-world conditions is just as important as testing in the laboratory.
Recognising this need, the PV industry is currently developing a series of new IEC standards. EnergyVille actively contributes to this process and has developed testing infrastructure aligned with these emerging requirements.
Testing Under Realistic Conditions
EnergyVille operates a unique large-scale module tester equipped with LED lighting. This system allows us to illuminate both the front and back of large PV modules.
Light intensity and spectral conditions can be fully adjusted to accurately replicate a wide range of outdoor environments.
In addition, we operate outdoor test setups in both rack-mounted and façade-integrated configurations. These installations complement our indoor measurements and provide valuable insights into real-life performance.
The test setups enable highly accurate voltage measurements at short time intervals. Combined with extensive meteorological monitoring, they provide a strong foundation for research on building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), reliability assessment, and energy yield simulation and prediction.
We also ensure that both industrial-scale modules and small research devices can be analysed using our characterisation infrastructure, supporting the development of new materials and technologies.
Advanced Characterisation Capabilities
Our research on cells, materials and reliability is supported by a broad range of characterisation techniques.
Opto-electrical analysis tools include:
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Spectral response measurements
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Reflectivity mapping
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Spectroscopy
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High-resolution electroluminescence
Material analysis capabilities include:
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Optical microscopy
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Electron microscopy
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Cross-section preparation tools
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Adhesion testing
From Analysis to Performance Improvement
The combination of advanced testing infrastructure, extensive characterisation capabilities and expert knowledge allows us to identify the root causes of performance losses in PV modules.
These insights help us develop targeted improvement strategies and technology roadmaps to enhance the performance, reliability and lifetime of current and future PV technologies.
