Over the past three years, the test-bench has served multiple partners, with all 26 channels on average put to use researching new PV module concepts. Modules from different project were also validated on the platform to confirm performance hypotheses under extreme conditions. International partners have used the PSDA across two annual evaluation cycles to design SHJ-based modules with varying bill-of-materials, yielding two full SHJ module versions demonstrating superior performance ratios versus comparable commercial products.
Each sample is assigned a dedicated multi-tracer channel for IV curve tracing, alongside front/rear POA measurement, module temperature tracking, meteorological characterization, and high-quality data acquisition with real-time storage, processing, and remote visualization for further analysis. This globally unique platform tests modules under exceptionally harsh conditions: intense UV, sharp intra-day temperature and humidity swings, ~1000 m altitude, and a windy desert environment prone to heavy soiling.
The mini-module test-bench evaluates up to four samples of four-cell modules simultaneously at PSDA over three-month periods.
The test-bench evaluates new module concepts, harsh-condition bill-of-materials, protective coatings against soiling/UV losses, and outdoor-vs-indoor performance validation.
An asset monitoring system collects, stores, and processes datalogger data to generate performance and degradation indicators, available in real time and for download. Reference cells and temperature sensors translate outdoor measurements to standard test conditions, while each module’s multi-tracer records an IV curve every minute.
The mini-module test-bench simultaneously tests up to 32 four-cell modules under severe conditions—intense UV, sharp temperature/humidity swings, and strong winds causing soiling. A meteorology station characterizes solar resources, measuring irradiance, albedo, solar spectrum, atmospheric particulates, humidity, temperature, wind, precipitation, and UV content.
The Atacama Desert Solar Platform (PSDA) provides this installation and its key facilities.