Long term performance analysis of PV module in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia

This paper presents the evaluation results of a long-term performance of 2 type PV module from actual data measured over a period of more than 6 years in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia. For the purpose of estimating solar energy potentials and durability of PV systems in the Gobi desert area, a data acquisition system, which includes crystalline silicon (c-Si), polycrystalline silicon (p-Si) modules and precision pyranometer, thermometer and anemometer, have been installed at the Sainshand city in October, 2002. This system has been measuring 23 parameters including solar irradiation and meteorological parameters in every 10 minutes. It has been observed that the high output gain due to the operating condition in an extreme low ambient temperature and the PV module degradation rate indicated over -1.5[%/yr] after 6 years exposure test.