Progress in Improving Photovoltaics Longevity

With the increase of photovoltaic (PV) penetration in the power grid, the reliability and longevity of PV modules are important for improving their payback period and reducing recycling needs. Although the performance of PV systems has been optimized to achieve a multi-fold increase in their electricity generation compared to ten years ago, improvements in lifespan have received less attention. Appropriate operation and maintenance measures are required to mitigate their aging. PV cells and modules are subject to various degradation mechanisms, which impact their long-term performance and reliability. Understanding these degradation processes is crucial for improving the lifetime and sustainability of solar energy systems. In this context, this review summarizes the current knowledge on key degradation mechanisms (intrinsic, extrinsic, and specific) affecting PV modules, as well as on-site and remote sensing methods for detecting PV module defects and the mitigation strategies employed for enhancing their operational lifetime under different climatic conditions in the global environment.