Seasonal variation of PV module performance in tropical regions

PV systems need to be designed in line with the local conditions to ensure optimized performance. This paper analyzes the PV module performance in tropical regions, specifically in Singapore. Three PV modules technologies were investigated: monocrystalline Si, single junction amorphous Si and micromorph Si thin-film modules. Long-term monitoring results reveal that PV modules exhibit evident enhancement from middle of November to middle of January, when is the rainy season in Singapore. Correlation analysis shows that temperature is the main factor for the seasonal performance variation. Monocrystalline Si shows the highest correlation with temperature and irradiance. a-Si single junction thin-film modules are less dependent on temperature, while micromorph Si shows the least correlation with the two variables. The influence of spectral variation (air mass) is discussed as well.