Development of models for test performance of PV modules

This paper describes the first results of development of user-friendly tools and models for predicting and evaluating performance of photovoltaic modules under actual field conditions. First is described the development of model for the photovoltaic module that uses the mono and poly-crystalline technologies. A workbench consisting of a micro-controller load simulator and a data acquisition system for the characterization of photovoltaic modules under specific operational conditions is presented. The models parameters are then estimated and the simulation is carried out. These tools enable the field engineer to predict system (and component) performance for known operational conditions before actually deploying the system for its intended application.