Power rating uncertainty analysis of electrical performance of photovoltaic modules

Electricity energy output for photovoltaic (PV) devices is commonly related to the nominal peak power of PV Grid connected system, which is obtained under standard test conditions. The accuracy of measured module peak power is sensitive and important to PV manufacturers, researchers and investors. In this paper, both flat plate and concentrator PV module measurement procedures and corresponding uncertainty calculation are described in detail. The research shows that more attention should be given to the reference devices such as reference cell, reference module or pyranometer which contribute majority of uncertainty components. The research findings provide a guideline of electricity power rating measurement approach and a traceability chain for flat plate and concentrator PV module electrical performance uncertainty estimation.