Module Efficiency
The module efficiency is a crucial parameter in photovoltaics. It indicates how efficiently a solar module converts incoming sunlight into electrical energy. Simply put: the higher the efficiency, the more electricity a module can generate from the same amount of sunlight.
How is module efficiency calculated?
Module efficiency is calculated as the ratio of the electrical power output of a module to the incident solar power. Standard Test Conditions (STC) are used to provide a comparable value for different modules.
What affects module efficiency?
- Cell technology: Monocrystalline cells generally have a higher efficiency than polycrystalline or thin-film cells.
- Material quality: The purity of the materials used and the precision of the manufacturing process affect efficiency.
- Temperature: Efficiency decreases as temperature rises.
- Angle of incidence: The angle at which sunlight strikes the module affects performance.
- Contamination: Dirty modules produce less electricity.
Why is module efficiency important?
- Cost-effectiveness: Higher efficiency means fewer modules are needed for the same amount of electricity, thus saving costs.
- Space requirement: Fewer modules mean less space is required.
- Environmental friendliness: Higher efficiency reduces the ecological footprint.
Current developments
Research and development in photovoltaics continuously lead to higher efficiencies. New cell technologies, such as PERC or heterojunction, as well as innovative materials like perovskite, promise further efficiency gains.
Relevant keywords: Efficiency, Renewable Energies, Solar Energy, Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, Thin-film Module, PERC, Heterojunction, STC (Standard Test Conditions)
