IEA PVPS Task 13 – Performance, Operation and Reliability of Photovoltaic Systems

Within the framework of PVPS, Task 13 aims at supporting market actors to improve the operation, the reliability and the quality of PV components and systems. Operational data of PV systems in different climate zones compiled within the project will allow conclusions on the reliability and on yield estimations. Furthermore, the qualification and lifetime characteristics of PV components and systems shall be analysed, and technological trends identified. Task 13 is subdivided into three topical Subtasks reflecting the three objectives stated above:
Subtask 1: New Module Concepts and System Designs
Subtask 2: Performance of Photovoltaic Systems
Subtask 3: Monitoring - Operation & Maintenance

Together with Task 1, Task 13 will continue to be needed for the predictable future, and is of critical importance to the health of the PV industry. The reliability of PV plants and modules has been, and will continue to be an issue for investors and
users. The PV industry continues to undergo rapid change, both in magnitude with a near-doubling of global capacity every 3-4 years, and new technology uses (e.g. changing cell thicknesses, PERC technology uptake, bifacial cells) and new deployment locations and methods, such as floating PV and agricultural PV.

The impact of these combined effects is that the reliability and performance of PV modules and systems requires further study to ensure that PV continues to be a good investment, as past performance of similar technologies is not guaranteed to be a complete/reliable predictor of future performance of new installations.

Performance and reliability of PV modules and systems is a topic that is attracting every day more attention from various stakeholders. In recent times it also comes in combination with the terms of quality and sustainability. Task 13 has so far managed to create the right framework for the calculations of various parameters that can give an indication of quality of components and system as a whole. The framework is now there and can be used by the industry who has expressed in many ways appreciation towards the results included in the high quality reports.

Presently, there are 80 members from 47 institutions in 21 countries collaborating in this Task, which had started its activities in September 2018. The third phase of Task 13 work will be continued with a new work programme until September 2021.