PV — Experimental Work

Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Experimental Arrangement
3. Method
4. Results

Environmental Chamber at the University of Strathclyde

INTRODUCTION

In order to correctly size our system (using the Merit software as described on the matching pages), it was necessary to input detailed current/voltage characteristics of the PV into the software. PV manufacturers will supply data for their products under Standard Test Conditions (STC). This implies conditions of 25 degrees C and 1000 

W/m2 irradiance. Irradiance and temperature constantly change so for PV modules being used to produce electricity under real conditions this STC data is of limited use.

Fortunately, the University of Strathclyde has a test facility to enable characterisation of PV modules. It was decided that in order to ensure that our project was as thorough and accurate as possible, the group would perform a characterisation test of a monocrystalline BP 585 solar module.

On to next section (experimental arrangement)