Fraunhofer Center for Silicon Photovoltaics CSP
Fraunhofer Center for Silicon Photovoltaics CSP
© Fraunhofer IMWS
Infolge elektrischer Überlast zerstörtes Power-Modul eines PV-Wechselrichters.

Reducing inverter failures and malfunctions

Inverters are the essential key component for feeding the electrical energy generated by solar modules into the power grid. How can failures and malfunctions of these inverters be reduced? The Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS is investigating this question in cooperation with DiSUN Deutsche Solarservice GmbH and DENKweit GmbH as part of the "robStROM" project funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

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© Fraunhofer IMWS

Test field for solar cell modules
© Fraunhofer CSP
Test field for solar cell modules on the roof of the Fraunhofer CSP.

Outdoor PV Lab Halle

The test field on the roof of our institute building offers our customers 36 measuring stations for free-field measurements as well as material weathering for photovoltaic components.

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© Fraunhofer CSP

PV Systems and PV Integration

Our extensive expertise in system modeling, design evaluation, and data analysis of PV systems as well as PV-centric power systems enables us to provide solutions to increase the integrability, efficiency, and reliability of PV-centric systems.

Our research aims to provide sound insights and innovative methodologies to answer questions related to solar energy:

  • Is my PV system working as it should? And if not, what is the reason?
  • How can planning and operational processes be automated?
  • How can critical defects or structural/technical deviations in systems be easily detected?
  • How can PV modules be suitably integrated into special overall concepts or areas of application?
  • What are the energy advantages of PV storage or PV electrolysis systems?
  • What can climate-neutral cities of tomorrow look like?

We offer:

  • Performance and yield evaluation of solar modules and systems
  • PV system diagnostics with AI
  • Operational data analysis and optimization of PV system operation management
  • Integration of PV into system concepts
  • Simulation of decentralized energy systems

Research Topics

 

PV System Concepts

The integration of PV systems in specific applications, such as house facades, vehicles, but also agricultural and water surfaces, requires adapted module technology concepts. Fraunhofer CSP is working on harmonizing design, yield and reliability.

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© Fraunhofer CSP

PV System Diagnostics

The data produced by a PV system holds great potential for improved plant monitoring, cost and risk minimization, and damage assessments. At Fraunhofer CSP, we are developing AI-based methods to harness this data efficiently.

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Our Contribution to IEA PVPS Task 13

Founded in 1993, the IEA PVPS (Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme) is an international collaboration under the International Energy Agency (IEA). A total of 29 countries and organizations – including Germany, the USA, China, and SolarPower Europe – are working together to promote the sustainable use of photovoltaics for electricity generation.

Eight active research projects (Tasks) provide independent insights into key topics such as sustainability, system reliability, and market development. The program aims to advance PV technologies, support competitive markets, and inform energy transition policies.

Fraunhofer CSP is actively involved in Task 13 – Reliability and Performance of Photovoltaic Systems – with Senior Scientist Ulrike Jahn serving as a lead expert.

Below you will find all reports from our research group related to reliability and performance of PV systems.

 

An overview of floating PV (FPV) performance, focusing on energy yield, reliability, and O&M – supporting responsible deployment on inland and nearshore waters.

 

The report examines technical performance, modeling, and operational challenges of agrivoltaics, offering guidance for efficient and replicable global applications.

 

An overview of best practices and innovations in bifacial PV tracking systems – now the leading setup for utility-scale solar installations worldwide.

 

 

The report provides targeted recommendations to enhance the performance and reliability of PV systems in extreme climates. By analyzing climate-related stress factors and proven mitigation strategies, it serves as a practical guide for planners and developers worldwide.

 

The report analyzes key performance indicators (KPIs) for the operation of PV systems. It highlights challenges, application opportunities, and best practices for technical monitoring and data management in the photovoltaic sector.