IEA PVPS Task 13: Enabling 2nd life photovoltaics
In April 2024, ISES and IEA PVPS were happy to start a new webinar collaboration. The first webinar presented the work of IEA-PVPS Task 13 and their work on 2nd life photovoltaics.
Subtask 1.2 of IEA-PVPS Task 13 aims to provide a review of technical efforts aimed at repair and re-furnishment, but also enhanced repairability of PV modules to enable a 2nd life. Secondly, it enables the possibility to exchange information about re-qualification and bankability of 2nd life PV and summarize field experience of 2nd life PV.
The Subtask actively collects and summarizes information on 2nd life of PV modules. Part 1 of the activity deals with describing and reviewing currently used repair methods of PV modules regarding efficiency and long-term stability. Part 2 of the activity explores and discusses current best practices and technical challenges for (reliability) testing, sorting, and quality/safety control for 2nd life PV modules as well as evaluate cost implications.
The webinar pointed out different factors enabling a 2nd life of PV modules. One focus was on the degradation behaviour and failure mechanisms of PV module backsheets as well as approaches, effectiveness, and field experiences for the repair of PV modules with damaged backsheet. In addition, the importance of complete information on the type and operation of the aged PV modules (origin, age, BOM, installation site and local climatic conditions, etc.) was emphasized.
Suitable repair procedure leads to restoration of electrical insulation properties of damaged backsheets
Comprehensive information about the origin and operation of the PV modules is important in order to enable 2nd life photovoltaics. Can every backsheet failure be repaired?
The webinar will address the following questions:
Can every backsheet failure be repaired?
Do repair tapes and repair coatings deliver the same results?
What about safety aspects of repaired modules?
Why is the provenance and life history important for re-used PV modules?