Variations in the I/V Characteristics of Directly Water Cooled and Naturally Cooled PV Modules

27th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition; 3992-3996 Variations in I/V characteristics of PV modules are known to bring about power losses. Temperature mismatches, cracked cells, module soiling and shading are major causes for the power losses. The main task of this paper was to get a general view of the mismatch losses under non-standard conditions on two modules, one directly cooled with water as compared to a naturally cooled module placed outdoor. The two PV modules were found to display I/V characteristics indicating mismatches early in the morning and late towards the end of the day. The equipment used to carry out this investigation where a low cost I/V system developed at the institution. Directly water cooled and naturally cooled SW80 modules were tested under outdoor conditions. The current and voltage measurements were taken from sunrise to sunset. The measurements were carried out under typical South Africa meteorological conditions.