What are thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules?

Thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules are among the main alternatives to silicon modules in commercial solar energy systems. Thin-film technologies account for a small but growing share of the global solar market and are expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 23% from 2020-2025.

Why do thin-film modules have a high voltage?

Due to the high number of individual cells, lower cell and module currents and higher module voltages are typical of thin-film modules. That means that relatively few modules can be connected in series. Some thin-film modules have higher voltages during their initial operation, further reducing the possible string length.

What is a thin-film module – building integrated PV (BIPV)?

Thin-film modules are particularly popular in BIPV – Building Integrated PV. They are often preferred due to their uniform appearance, and additionally these installations are far more frequently affected by shading. In particular, vertical surfaces are generally affected by shading to a greater extent, e.g. by neighboring buildings and canopies.

Do thin-film modules need power optimizers?

While the impact on thin-film systems is lower than the impact on systems with crystalline modules, it cannot be ignored. Using power optimizers prevents the mismatch losses and provides designers with greater flexibility. Thin-film modules often have higher current and voltage tolerances.

How many m2 should a PV inverter have?

2 m2 in contrast only a minimum of 20 M Ω . For PV plants without galvanic isolation (transformerless), the Riso must be at least 2 000 kΩ per kW input power of the inverter. Adherence to this limiting value must be monitored by the inverter.

How does a transformerless inverter work?

For many transformerless inverters this amounts to half of the alternating voltage (115 V / 50 Hz). The fluctuating voltage constantly changes the state of charge of the parasitic PV capacitor and causes a displacement current that is proportional to the capacitance and to the voltage amplitude.