Evaluation of PV Module Reliability Across A Temperature Range, Spanning A Period of 0 and 35 Years

Abdoulaye Kabré^1, , Dominique Bonkoungou^{1, 2} and Zacharie Koalaga¹

¹Laboratoire de Matériaux et Environnement (LAME), Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

²Laboratoire de Sciences et Technologies (LaST), Université Thomas SANKARA, 12 BP 417 Saaba, Burkina Faso

Cite this paper:
Abdoulaye Kabré, Dominique Bonkoungou and Zacharie Koalaga. Evaluation of PV Module Reliability Across A Temperature Range, Spanning A Period of 0 and 35 Years. American Journal of Energy Research. 2025; 13(1):1-7. doi: 10.12691/ajer-13-1-1

Abstract

Solar energy, being both abundant and environmentally friendly, holds great promise as a renewable energy source. It can be converted into electricity through photovoltaic (PV) modules, which are crucial in the shift towards renewable energy. While PV modules are typically designed for a 25-year lifespan, their performance is significantly affected by environmental factors, especially ambient temperature. PV modules are normally tested under standardized conditions (25°C, 1000 W/m², AM1.5), that differ from real-world outdoor environments. However, temperature fluctuations can reduce their efficiency and accelerate material degradation, potentially undermining the reliability of these PV modules. This study aims to analyze the reliability of PV modules in Burkina Faso, employing Weibull’s law and the Arrhenius model to evaluate the impact of temperature fluctuations. A mathematical model was developed and implemented in Matlab/Simulink, with simulations conducted at 25°C to 40°C. This methodology allows for examining PV module durability and reliability under local conditions. The study results show that a 1°C rise in ambient temperature causes a 0.5% drop in PV module efficiency. Lifespan and average lifespan (MTTF) are reduced by around 1.8% for each additional degree and by 0.06% with each 1W/m² in solar irradiation. The failure probability density peaks after 7 years at 40°C and 11 years at 25°C, then decreases until it disappears after 20 years. Meanwhile, the failure rate continues to rise throughout the life of the PV module. These results highlight the importance of considering thermal conditions when using PV modules, as high temperature can adversely affect their long-term performance. To enhance the durability and reliability of these modules, limiting their exposure to heat is essential.

Keywords:
Reliability Photovoltaics temperature Weibull Arrhenius

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