Reliability of floating photovoltaics (FPV): evaluating the effects of hydrodynamic mechanical loads on photovoltaic modules

Abstract Floating photovoltaics (FPV) has emerged as a promising solution for renewable energy generation, particularly in land-scarce regions. However, the unique environmental conditions of FPV systems, particularly wave-induced mechanical stresses, pose significant challenges to the performance and long-term reliability of photovoltaic (PV) modules. This study investigates the effects of three specific and non-standard mechanical loads: torsions, vibrations, and wave-in-deck impacts. Through a campaign of experimental testing, we propose advanced stress tests and explore their implications, focusing on the risk of degradation and failure modes such as structural collapse, glass and cell cracks, and cell microcracks. This study provides essential insights into optimising the design of FPV modules and introducing new type approval strategies for them, aiming to improve their reliability in harsh aquatic environments and pave a pathway for the PV community to rethink the need and redefine specific test protocols for the qualification testing of modules deployed in floating systems.