The photovoltaic (PV) energy rating is related to the energy yield performance of a PV module. Unlike the power rating, which is only related to the performance at a single operating point at 25°C, 1000 W/m2, and AM1.5 spectrum (Standard Test Conditions, STC), the energy rating considers several characteristics of the PV module that affect the amount of energy produced: a) low irradiation behaviour b) temperature behaviour c) spectral response and d) angular response. These characteristics are also a function of climate and location conditions, vary over time, and differ widely from the STC. For the PV industry and its market players, accurate information on how much energy PV modules and systems can generate is crucial, and even more relevant than the power rating. In recent times the photovoltaic industry is moving from thinking about power (watt-peak) to thinking about energy (kWh), giving greater importance to the energy rating.
IEA PVPS Task 13
