Array Performance Characterization and Modeling for Real-Time Performance Analysis of Photovoltaic Systems

Improvements in the methods used for photovoltaic (PV) system design, performance rating, and long-term monitoring are needed by the rapidly growing industry, as well as by the U.S. Department of Energy in evaluating progress by solar technology development initiatives. This paper describes an improved model for rating and monitoring PV array performance, discusses initial results from an outdoor laboratory designed to assist industry in optimizing system components and integration, and provides a brief discussion of the system performance metrics currently being used by the PV community