Abstract
The service life estimation in the photovoltaic (PV) industry is yet in its infancy, requiring both underpinning science and trained personnel to reduce costs of energy. An unmet industrial requirement is an accelerated and operating environment specific, service life time and energy yield assessment. SOLAR-TRAIN qualifies early stage researchers (ESRs) in the field of PV durability as part of a highly innovative, multi-disciplinary project meeting industry requirements. The research objective is to develop novel and validated models for the service life time and energy prediction of PV modules and systems. The elements to this puzzle are researched in the frame of 14 PhD projects with individual areas of focus, ranging from investigations on climatic degradation factors, through to research on material level, simulations and modelling of energy yield and life time. The research projects are enhanced by an innovative training scheme in close cooperation with industry. This inter-sectoral approach provides excellent theoretical and technical background as well as immersion in different business sectors and career mentoring.