Research on advanced solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for tropical climates aims to improve efficiency, durability, and adaptability under high temperatures, humidity, and intense solar radiation. The key focus areas include:
1. Identification of Solar PV materials
- Temperature-resistant solar cell materials: Research on new cell technologies (e.g., heterojunction (HJT), TOPCon) that maintain high efficiency at elevated temperatures.
- Improved thermal management: research on advanced encapsulants, heat-resistant backsheets, and better ventilation design.
- UV-resistant backsheets and glass: research on reducing material degradation from intense sunlight exposure.
2. Develop a Prototype of a PV Module for Tropical Climates
- Selecting PV Materials & Components: Solar cell, encapsulants, front glass, backsheet & frame, and interconnections;
- Design & Simulation: layout, module size, electricl interconnection,etc
- Prototype Fabrication (cooperation with local manufacture)
3. Laboratory Testing & Validation in accordance with relevant standards
- Thermal Cycling Test (IEC 61215): Simulate temperature fluctuations from day-night cycles.Damp Heat Test (IEC 61215):
- Expose modules to 85°C, 85% humidity to test moisture resistance.
- UV Exposure Test (IEC 61730): Evaluate UV degradation over time.
- Salt Mist Corrosion Test (IEC 61701): Ensure resistance to coastal environmental conditions, etc.
4. Field Testing & Long-term Performance Analysis
- Real-world outdoor testing: Comparing different PV module technologies under tropical conditions.
- Reliability studies: Assessing long-term performance degradation rates.
