Irradiance and temperature distributions at high latitudes: Design implications for photovoltaic systems

Irradiance and temperature distributions collected over several years at high-latitude locations in Norway (58-70°N) are presented. Measurements are coupled with standard efficiency data for selected commercial photovoltaic (PV) modules to evaluate the effect on relative efficiency. The modules display some performance variation caused by the different irradiance distributions, but the main effect is linked with temperature. The results may have implications for the choice of components and accuracy of yield estimates during the PV system design phase. The findings will provide input for the development of adapted building integrated (BIPV) modules with high performance and durability at high latitudes.