Kuwait crystalline silicon photovoltaic panels

Do photovoltaic modules perform well in the harsh climate of Kuwait?

This paper presents a comparative performance evaluation of eight commercially available photovoltaic modules (m-Si, p-Si, HIT and thin film with several technologies (CdTe, CIGS and u-Si)) in the harsh climate of Kuwait. The final energy yield of different kinds of modules was analysed to show the technology specific differences.

Where are photovoltaic technologies tested in Kuwait?

In this work, performance analysis and comparison of eight photovoltaic (PV) technologies were carried out under the local harsh climate conditions of Kuwait. The test facility is elevated 3 metres above ground level on top of carports at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), alongside the seashore.

Which PV technology is best under Kuwait climate conditions?

Outdoor testing of 8 different PV technologies under Kuwait climate conditions. Impact of PV soiling due to dust deposit on modules temperature and performance. HIT modules are found to perform consistently better than other technologies. Glass modules are more resistant to soiling losses compared to epoxy PV surfaces.

How does the shape of a photovoltaic module affect performance?

Annual performance ratio for each module technology, for both cleaned and dirty modules. This result reveals that the geometric shape and the material of the photovoltaic module have a significant effect on dust accumulation and module temperature which, in turn, affect module performance.

How does climate affect photovoltaic module performance?

Kuwait is a desert country known for its very dry and hot climate with seasonal dust storms. Distinct photovoltaic (PV) technologies react differently to this climate, which in turn influences module performance. Previous research has shown that PV modules of different types have dissimilar patterns of behaviour for specific climates.

Do crystalline silicon cells perform better in temperate climates?

Aste et al. (2014) made a comparative analysis of crystalline silicon cells (m-Si), micromorph cells (a-Si/ μ c-Si), and heterojunction (HIT) cells in temperate climates of Italy. The analysis shows that in warmer months micromorph a-Si/ μ c-Si silicon cells achieve higher performance than the other technologies tested.