How do different types of cracks affect PV modules?

Diferent shapes, sizes and types of cracks afect PV modules in diferent ways, although in PVEL’s lab and field testing experience, branching cracks (also known as dendritic cracks) that spread through cells as modules age in the field are usually the most destructive.

What causes glass & cell cracks in PV modules?

Hail, hurricanes, tornadoes and other high wind events are all known to cause glass and cell cracks in PV modules. Asset owners can mitigate the risk of cell-level damage in their fleets by investing in more robust PV modules, especially for projects in storm-prone regions.

Why do solar power plants have cell cracks?

As climate change accelerates and weather patterns change, force majeure events such as wildfires, hail and other storms are more likely to afect solar power plants. This white paper explains the problem of cell cracks and discusses how PV module buyers, investors and asset owners can mitigate risk by investing in durable PV modules.

What happens if a solar module cracks?

The module could produce less energy if these cracks restrict the flow of current through the cell. A local hotspot may eventually form in the damaged area of the cell, which can accelerate backsheet degradation and delamination, eventually increasing the risk that ground and arc faults will occur.

What damage did a PV module cause?

Physical damage, such as mishandling during transportation and/or installation, maintenance and/or improper cleaning. The PV module above was damaged by a tornado leading to cell cracks and inactive/dark areas. This EL image was taken by PVEL in the field.

What causes a PV module to fail?

Environmental conditions, such as daily temperature fluctuations, freeze-thaw cycles, wind, snow accumulation and hail. Physical damage, such as mishandling during transportation and/or installation, maintenance and/or improper cleaning. The PV module above was damaged by a tornado leading to cell cracks and inactive/dark areas.