Desert label development for improved reliability and durability of photovoltaic modules in harsh desert conditions

Abstract We present strong arguments and experimental findings for the definition of a photovoltaic module accelerated ageing procedure for high irradiance and desert conditions to create a Desert Label for the particular Atacama Desert climatic conditions. A special focus on high ultraviolet solar radiation dosage in combination with either damp heat, salt mist or aggressive thermal cycling are presented. Indoor experimental results, strengthened by outdoor monitoring of sister mini-modules at the Atacama Desert, allowed selecting the appropriate ageing tests while exploring the reliability and durability of a wide range of module configurations, including various typical encapsulants, high efficiency cell technologies and module designs, for industrial applications.