Method to Assess the Degradation Risk of Photovoltaic Systems

Abstract

The paper presents the failure modes, the effects and the criticality for each element in the architecture and operation of a photovoltaic system. A typical configuration is considered: photovoltaic panel, junction box, connection cables, controller, battery and inverter. The first part of this study generally describes the current state of the failure modes and effects for each element of the photovoltaic system. In the second part of the study is presented a structured case study based on the LACARP photovoltaic system that is part of LACARP’s laboratory of Faculty of Electrical Engineering of the “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi including customized criteria and indicators for each element of a photovoltaic system. This approach will help establishing the hierarchy and the integration of each failure mode and the level of rated power affected.