Actual optical and thermal performance of PV-modules

The actual efficiency of photovoltaic generators is often lower than predicted by standard test conditions (STC) or standard operating conditions (SOC). This is caused mainly by an underestimation of reflection losses and solar cell temperature in the module. The authors describe how, in order to obtain more accurate results in predicting the performance of PV-modules, the parameters influencing incoming (optical parameters) and outgoing power flow (electrical and thermal parameters) were investigated by simulation and some verifying experiments at the University of New South Wales and the Australian desert.