A Dataset: Experimental Analysis of Outdoor Exposed Four-Year-Old Photovoltaic Modules in Dhaka, Bangladesh

The long-term performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules significantly affects the reliability and economic viability of solar energy systems, as various environmental and operational factors can gradually degrade module efficiency and reduce energy output. This study investigates the long-term performance degradation analysis of 40 outdoor photovoltaic (PV) modules exposed for four years on a five-level building in Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Electrical parameters, including voltage, current, power, and fill factor, were measured using a PROVA 1011 PV analyzer under IEC60904-1 standard test conditions, and analyzed to evaluate the extent of long-term degradation of PV modules. The image-based analysis identified degradation factors such as dust accumulation, soiling, hotspots, discoloration, micro-cracks, delamination, and corrosion. All test data were normalized to standard conditions (1000 W/m2, 25 °C) for consistency. The measured average maximum power output was 9.85 W, with an average fill factor of 0.713 and a standard deviation of 0.939 for the 40 photovoltaic modules with a rated capacity of 10 W each. The dataset provides valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals to assess long-term PV performance, optimize maintenance strategies, and support solar energy deployment in tropical environments. Additionally, it can aid policymakers in developing regulatory frameworks for improving solar infrastructure resilience.