The International Energy Agency PVPS Programme (IEA PVPS) has published two new reports focusing on performance and reliability of Photovoltaic Systems (Task 13). The study »Uncertainties in PV System Yield Predictions and Assessments« (74 pages) collects some insights into the field of uncertainties of several technical aspects of PV system yield prediction and assessment. According to the organization, it aims to develop a method to handle all sources of uncertainties influencing lifetime energy yield predictions and to present the information needed to feed financial models with time dependent yield estimates and exceedance probabilities as desired by investors or stakeholders.

The report »Review on Infrared and Electroluminescence Imaging for PV Field Applications« (99 pages) presents the current practices for infrared (IR) and electroluminescence (EL) imaging of PV modules and systems, looking at environmental and device requirements on one hand, and on the interpretation of sample patterns with abnormalities on the other hand. The goal is to provide recommendations and guidelines for using IR and EL imaging techniques to identify and assess specific failure modes of PV modules and systems in field applications.

The two reports are free of charge and can be found at the IEA PVPS website. Task 13 was established in 2010 within the IEA PVPS Programme in order to continue to research activities on performance and quality issues started in the former Task 2. It is co-managed by TÜV Rheinland and the Fraunhofer-Institut für Solare Energiesysteme ISE, both from Germany.