Evaluation of performance and early degradation of a 180.8 KWP rooftop on a grid-connected photovoltaic system in a Colombian tropical region environment

The use of renewable energy such as photovoltaic is growing. According to IRENA, these systems are one the most dynamic generation technologies. global market has grown rapidly between 2000 and 2016 at an annual average compound rate 44%, from 0.8 GW 291 GW. In Colombia, regions with high solar irradiation levels have been identified emerging markets. Government's plan increase share non-conventional energies in matrix 2% 8% - 10%. However, uncertainties associated technology sites specific degradation rates make it difficult calculate accurate electricity efficiencies predicting future performance material rates, thus business models exhibit considerable deviations related real rates. This work studies early a 180.8 kWp rooftop on grid connected system, installed Barranquilla, Colombia. Two methods were used: i) estimation conversion efficiency, ii) visual inspection. first method includes cross analysis climatic conditions, irradiance levels, generated downstream inverters. second consists periodical inspections modules check: discoloration, delamination, busbar corrosion, cracking cell, glass breakage, anti-reflection coating, solder bond.