Investigation of the Influence of Elevated Ambient Temperatures on the Operation of Photovoltaic Modules

Abstract

The article considers the influence the elevated ambient temperatures have on the photovoltaic modules efficiency. The photovoltaic module surface temperatures in the hottest months were calculated for the Southern Urals, as well as for countries with high average daily temperature. Possible electrical and economic losses due the photovoltaic module surface overheating were identified. The paper proposes cooling and protection options for the modules to prevent overheating when used in solar power plants, as well as calculates the effect overheating protection and cooling systems use on electrical losses during generation.