I-V characteristic and reliability test of CPV modules

To assess electrical and reliability performance of CPV modules of China, a test bed of CPV module I-V characteristics is established in the Institute of Electrical Engineering of Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing. The relative and absolute output power of CPV modules are measured using test methods of both IEC 62108 and ASTM E 2527. I-V characteristics under CPV Standard Test Condition (CSTC) are also compared and analyzed according to on-site I-V test result. This paper also discusses reliability test procedures, result and problems of IEC 62108. Major failures and causes of CPV modules and receivers during thermal cycling and humidity freeze tests are presented in this work. Encapsulating materials and Fresnel lens are key factors to successfully withstand reliability test.