Early Detection of Potential Induced Degradation in the Field: Testing a New Method for Silicon PV Modules

Abstract

High voltage photovoltaic (PV) systems are affected by potential induced degradation (PID). PID detection by conventional data analysis methods could take a long time, leading to unnoticed energy loss. If PID is detected at an early stage, energy loss could be avoided by taking appropriate measures. This paper presents a new method for detecting PID at an early stage (< 1% power loss). The method is based on low-current DC signals and, hence, it could be implemented in a low-cost sensor. The method was tested experimentally on standard multi-cell crystalline silicon PV modules and successfully detected PID before 1% power loss.