What is the I–V curve of a PV cell?

The I–V curve of a PV cell is shown in Figure 6. The star indicates the maximum power point (MPP) of the I–V curve, where the PV will produce its maximum power. At voltages below the MPP, the current is a relative constant as voltage changes such that it acts similar to a current source.

What is the output power of a PV cell?

The output power of the PV cell is voltage times current, so there is no output power for a short-circuit condition because of VOUT or for an open-circuit condition because of IOUT = 0. Above the short-circuit point, the PV cell operates with a resistive load.

What is a PV rating & why is it important?

The rating of photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules is critical in comparing the performance of the plethora of competing PV technologies. The rating should be easy to reproduce, give a unique value in the absence of measurement error, and, most importantly, be directly related to the expected system performance.

What are photovoltaic cells & how do they work?

Photovoltaic (PV) cells, or solar cells, are semiconductor devices that convert solar energy directly into DC electric energy. In the 1950s, PV cells were initially used for space applications to power satellites, but in the 1970s, they began also to be used for terrestrial applications.

What is the value of VOC in a solar cell?

The value of VOC depends on cell technology and the operating temperature of the cell. Maximum power point represents the maximum power that a solar cell can produce at the STC (i.e. solar radiance of 1000 W/m2 and cell operating temperature of 25oC). It is measured in WPeak or simply WP.

What is VOC in a PV cell?

For an open output, the voltage, VOC is maximum (0.6 V) in this case, but the current is 0 A, as indicated. The output power of the PV cell is voltage times current, so there is no output power for a short-circuit condition because of VOUT or for an open-circuit condition because of IOUT = 0.