Objective Photovoltaic (PV) module reliability is a critical factor for energy yield predictability, and reduced PV cost of electricity. Today, there is limited understanding of PV reliability issues under real-field conditions; and none of the state-of-the-art energy yield models can predict their long-term performance considering lifecycle degradation and failure propagation. Ultimate objective of the planned research is to develop the first bottom-up reliability model for selected PV failure/degradation modes, coupled with advanced simulation of real-field stress factors. Broader vision of the Project is to yield a novel design-for-reliability (DfR) protocol for site-specific optimization of PV module concepts. Following a “closed-loop learning” approach, the Project will be implemented in three workpackages (WP). In WP1, analysis of field diagnostic and meteorological data will be performed for selected PV installations and climatic zones, aiming to correlate degradation rates and/or failure occurrences, with site-specific stress factors. WP2 will involve the fabrication of PV samples; which, will undergo novel reliability tests based on insights from WP1, and enable the development of a novel physics/chemical PV reliability models that can be adapted to specific sites and module designs. Then, advanced simulations of PV lifecycle degradation, based on the reliability models coupled to bottom-up energy yield modelling will be developed in WP3. Final results of the project will be a predictive reliability tool and site-specific PV design and qualification guidelines. The project brings together the know-how of the Host, in advanced energy yield modelling and PV module technology innovation and characterization, and the applicant’s experience in PV field diagnostics and reliability; thus, giving a multidisciplinary training by research to the applicant in industrial research environment at an independent research center. Fields of science engineering and technologyenvironmental engineeringenergy and fuelsrenewable energysolar energynatural sciencesearth and related environmental sciencesatmospheric sciencesclimatologyclimatic zones Keywords Photovoltaic Modules Reliability Model Failure Analysis Energy Yield Simulation Design-for-Reliability Programme(s) H2020-EU.1.3. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Main Programme H2020-EU.1.3.2. - Nurturing excellence by means of cross-border and cross-sector mobility Topic(s) MSCA-IF-2016 - Individual Fellowships Call for proposal H2020-MSCA-IF-2016 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF) Coordinator INTERUNIVERSITAIR MICRO-ELECTRONICA CENTRUM Net EU contribution € 172 800,00 Address KAPELDREEF 75 3001 Leuven Belgium See on map Region Vlaams Gewest Prov. Vlaams-Brabant Arr. Leuven Activity type Research Organisations Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Participation in EU R&I programmes Opens in new window HORIZON collaboration network Opens in new window Total cost € 172 800,00