Quantifying PV module defects in the service environment

We report the results from a survey of commercial c-Si photovoltaic (PV) systems. These systems range in size from 1kw to 20MW representative of residential, commercial, and utility scale projects from newly commissioned to >25 years in operation. These results provide the industry with valuable PV system field experience and document PV module defects. Furthermore, a breakdown of module subcomponent defects identified is presented. We provide an overview of our inspection protocol used for documentation. In addition, we hope to raise awareness about visual defects that may be indicative of quality issues requiring further investigation or proactive operation and maintenance (O&M). As a result of our learning, risk mitigation techniques can be developed based on field data to eventually help identify and reduce these defects. The objective is to quantify and disseminate these learnings regarding PV asset management and provide a rationale to reduce risk based on the analysis of PV materials, modules, and systems in the service environment.