Challenges related to the long-term reliability of standard PV panels: case of Algerian Desert

Desert climates bring challenges to the long-term reliability of standard photovoltaic panels. In Algerian Desert, Standard PV panels are subjected to extreme weather conditions such as high solar irradiation and extreme ambient temperature that have a main effect on performance and long-term effect on PV module reliability. The study aims to analyses the effects of these challenges by climatic data analysis, (I-V) characterization and visual inspection for PV panels that have been operated for eleven years in Algerian desert climate. Results demonstrate an early degradation in panels performance accompanied by physical material defects that have been contributed to the decreased long-term reliability of tested panels in the Algerian desert.