The Degradation of the Electrical Performance of Photovoltaic Panels in the South Algeria (Adrar)

The Algerian Sahara is best suited for photovoltaic energy production due to the abundant availability of sunlight throughout the year. However, it presents a dry climate with high ambient temperatures of more than 50°C particularly during the summer season resulting in a significant drop in the energy efficiency of photovoltaic modules during this season. It is then necessary to monitor the endurance and reliability of solar systems in the Saharan environment. The Algerian Sahara presents a dry climate with high temperatures, therefore an opportunity to benefit from the installation and operation of photovoltaic modules. The solar panels receive solar radiation then they transform into electricity but under high temperatures and in the Sahara environment, there is a reduction in the efficiency of the module. It is then necessary to monitor the endurance and reliability of solar systems in the Sahara environment. This work is carried out on the evaluation of the performance of the I-V characteristics of the photovoltaic modules tested, the characteristics obtained were translated for standard Test Conditions of several photovoltaic modules of the monocrystalline (UDTS50) and multicrystalline (ARCO) after a period of exposure over 25 years in the real conditions of the Sahara environment (Adrar region) in order to make an estimate of the performance of the modules tested for the same reference conditions which allows us to detect defects by visual inspection method, and electrical defects such as, series resistance (Rs) and resistance shunt (Rsh). The results obtained showed a clear reduction in their performance, in particular, maximum powers and energy conversion. On average, these modules showed an estimated degradation of approximately 25.3% and an annual degradation rate of 1. 12%/year, (UDTS) but (ARCO) decreased up to 10% per year, and this by compared to a reference module of the same type. We can consider that the estimated average rate for module degradation is acceptable. This study will also provide useful information to manufacturers will help to better understand the degradation mechanisms and, consequently, to improve the long-term reliability of photovoltaic modules.