PV Evolution Labs (PVEL) has released its highly anticipated 2023 Module Reliability Scorecard, revealing a significant increase in the number of solar module types named “Top Performers.” The scorecard, now in its ninth year, evaluates modules based on rigorous testing procedures, including thermal cycling, damp heat, backsheet durability, and LID/LeTID sensitivity, among others. This year, a total of 247 module types from 35 manufacturers were recognized as “Top Performers,” marking a notable doubling from the previous year and setting a new record.
While p-type passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) technology remains the dominant cell type among the Top Performers, the scorecard also highlighted the emergence of other promising technologies. Tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) module types increased from a single listing last year to an impressive 37 across six manufacturers. Additionally, heterojunction module types rose from two in 2022 to nine in 2023, demonstrating the industry's commitment to innovation.
However, with the increase in the number of Top Performer manufacturers and module types, the scorecard also unveiled a higher failure rate. Nearly one-third of the bills of materials (BOMs) tested experienced at least one failure during the evaluation process. This emphasizes the need for buyers to have access to reliable guidance when selecting solar modules amidst ongoing supply issues.
Tristan Erion-Lorico, VP of Sales and Marketing at PVEL, acknowledged the dynamic nature of solar technology and the evolving manufacturer landscape. He stressed the importance of providing buyers with the necessary insights to make informed decisions when procuring modules for their projects.
The Top Performers identified in this year's scorecard were manufactured in 12 different countries, including Canada, Cambodia, China, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, the United States, and Vietnam. Notably, 11 manufacturers achieved Top Performer status in all reliability tests, with five of their module types also recognized for their energy yield performance.
The Module Reliability Scorecard serves as a valuable resource for revenue and yield modeling, examination of new technologies and manufacturing techniques, benchmarking processes, and gaining insights into the upstream solar sector. Participation in PVEL's PV Module Product Qualification Program (PQP) and scorecard is voluntary for manufacturers, ensuring that only the most exceptional module model types are recognized.
PVEL's commitment to rigorous testing and the publication of the scorecard has established it as a trusted authority in the solar industry, providing critical information that enables stakeholders to make informed decisions and drive the advancement of reliable and high-performance photovoltaic modules.
