Modelling of operating temperature for thin film modules for free-standing systems in Malaysia

Numerous mathematical models have been developed to estimate the operating photovoltaic module temperature. However, similar models are almost non-existent for lower latitude regions, specifically Malaysia. In addition to date, no published studies have been developed using free-standing amorphous silicon thin film modules for Malaysia. This need is now becoming urgent due to the proliferation of use of amorphous silicon modules in Malaysia in parallel to the Feed-in-Tariff scheme. Thus, this study aims to establish a new multiple linear regression model of operating module temperature with two independent variables; namely plane of array irradiance and ambient temperature. The accuracy, validity and suitability of this new model were analysed and compared with an established model, vis-à-vis the nominal operating cell temperature model. Root mean square error and mean absolute percentage error were used as error measures and coefficient of determination was determined for model fitness comparison. In conclusion, the new proposed model is more accurate in predicting operating module temperature for such systems in Malaysia.