SOPHIA CPV module round robin: Power rating at CSOC

Within the European funded project SOPHIA, a Round Robin measurement on CPV modules has been initiated. Seven different test laboratories located in Europe between 48 °N and 37 °N are participating in performing measurements of four SOITEC CPV modules. The modules are electrically characterized with different measurement equipment under various climatic conditions. A pyrheliometer and a spectral sensor, based on component cells, are being shipped together with the modules. This ensures that the irradiance and spectrum, two factors with high impact on CPV module performance, are measured with the identical equipment at each site. The round robin activity is being performed in close co-operation with the IEC TC82 WG7 power rating team in order to support the work on the CPV module power rating draft standard 62670-3. The resulting rated module power outputs at CSOC (Concentrator Standard Operating Conditions) are being compared amongst the power rating methods and amongst the test labs. In this manner, a deviation in rated power output between different test labs and power rating methods are being determined.