In the first paper, “PV Module Soiling Measurement Uncertainty Analysis,” we quantify the accuracy of measurements of PV power generation loss due to soiling of PV modules.

The second paper we’re presenting is titled “Comparing PV Power Plant Soiling Measurements Extracted from PV Module Irradiance and Power Measurements.”   In that work we use experiments and modeling to analyze the effects of non-uniform PV module soiling on perceived irradiance and measured power generation of PV modules.

We look forward to seeing you in Tampa!  Please contact us to schedule a meeting during the event.

The Atonometrics Irradiance Measurement System transforms a cell or module planned for use at a project site into a PV reference device (PVRD) to measure insolation. Unlike current technologies, Atonometrics’ solution enables automatic compensation for changes in factors including seasonal effects, angle of incidence, spectral content and ratio of direct to diffuse radiation, resulting in better correlations with PV array power output.

In conjunction with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Atonometrics recently completed a study demonstrating the ability of PVRDs to reduce uncertainty in irradiance measurements to just ±2.4 percent, versus ±5.2 percent for other technologies.

The Atonometrics PV Module Soiling Measurement System calculates the impact on power generation caused by dust and foreign matter accumulation at a given site.

“Recent studies have shown that module soiling alone can cause monthly power loss rates of more than 10 percent, in turn reducing a project’s return on investment. Module degradation can also significantly impact plant performance both immediately and over the long term,” said Atonometrics president and CEO William Stueve. “By increasing the accuracy of measurements, we can offer key stakeholders a more robust data set to enhance project bankability and ensure installations are performing optimally at all times.”

Atonometrics will display its full product portfolio at booth #3578 during Solar Power International, September 10-13 in Orlando, Florida.

In that issue, Photon International describes the Atonometrics Continuous Solar Simulator as “ideal” for light soaking studies of PV modules, noting the integrated I-V system, dual, large-area target planes and wide temperature range accessible during PV module testing.