Field Tests of Photovoltaic Power Systems

Field test experience gained at existing photovoltaic test sites is discussed. These sites include a 25-kW peak power system at Mead, Nebraska, a 12-kW peak array at MIT/Lincoln Laboratory, a 1.6-kW peak PV power system at the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, and several small (∼100 watts peak) arrays located in various urban and rural sites. All of these systems were constructed for the U.S. Department of Energy by MIT/Lincoln Laboratory. Data are given on failures which have occurred in the field and on the frequency of unscheduled outages. Also, information is presented concerning the environmental extremes to which the systems have been exposed. Operating experience gained from these projects is discussed in the contexts of storage, reliability, safety and cost. Finally, some projects which are currently in the design stage are discussed. This includes a 100-kW peak power system which will serve the entire electric load for the Natural Bridges National Monument in Utah, and a 10- to 20-kW peak power system which will power a small AM radio station located at a site yet to be determined in the North Central/North East region of the United States.Copyright © 1979 by ASME