Training the next generation of PV reliability experts - Project SOLAR-TRAIN "Photovoltaic life time forecast and evaluation"

The quality assurance and life time prediction in the photovoltaic industry are yet in their 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, multidisciplinary project meeting industry requirements. The research objective is to develop novel and validated models for the service life time and energy yield prediction of PV modules and systems. To achieve this objective, different topics are being addressed; these include climatic degradation factors, analysis of degradation and failure modes of PV modules, evaluation of polymeric materials in PV modules and service lifetime prediction for PV modules and systems and related economic impact.