PV electrical parameters degradation analysis-Oman perspective

Recent interests in exploring the potential of renewable energy possibilities and readiness in sultanate of Oman has showed that it can engage renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind power and various hybrid power models to mitigate fossil fuel limitations, revitalize additional economic development, create new jobs and preserve a cleaner environment. However, limited knowledge and information is available regarding PV performance over a long period of time under the influence of local geographical climate considerations. Therefore, PV degradation data could be vital for the stakeholders to ensure safe and long term operation of PV modules. To accomplish, it is necessary to address the PV electrical parameters degradation locally. The analysis showed that the average degradation of commercially available three silicon crystalline modules in six different sites is around 1.55%/year and median degradation is observed to be 1.28%/year. Further, analysis showed that losses of short-circuit current (I
_sc
) were responsible and higher for the maximum power degradation (P
_max
) in hot and dry climate than hot and humid climate conditions.