Results of 3 years' PV module weathering in various open-air climates

During the past 3 years crystalline PV modules fabricated by various German manufacturers have been exposed to outdoor conditions in four different climates: warm moderate climate (Cologne, Germany), tropical climate (Serpong, Indonesia), cold high mountain climate (Zugspitze, Germany) and arid conditions (Sede Boqer, Israel). Annual inspections and measurements examined the degradation of these modules with respect to electrical performance, mechanical condition and visible alterations. We give a detailed report of the results after 3 years of weathering, along with the outlook for an extension to new worldwide test locations and for the enhancement of measurement options for long-term characterizations.