Researchers use 'continuous solar simulator' to test PV modules

A Texas-based firm is providing a German research organization with a “continuous solar simulator” to enable testing of photovoltaic (PV) modules.

Atonometrics says its Light Soaking Chamber and Continuous Solar Simulator provides “simulated sunlight exposure for steady-state testing of photovoltaic (PV) modules. The system can be used for various tests requiring medium or long-term exposure, including photo-induced degradation, power output stabilization, hot-spot testing, and accelerated performance evaluation.”

The company recently installed and qualified a simulator at Fraunhofer ISE in Freiburg, Germany.  The system includes an integrated I-V measurement system and will be used for light soak tests of full-size PV modules. The technology will provide “important new capabilities as we work to increase the adoption of PV around the world,” said Frank Neuberger, head of CalLab PV Modules.