Abstract
One of the main parameters that affect the solar cell performance is cell temperature; the solar cell output decreases with the increase of temperature. Therefore, it is important to select the proper solar cell technology that performs better at a specified location considering its average temperatures. In addition, the solar cell performance is directly reflected on the overall economics of the project. This paper is proposed to evaluate the variations in the performance of different solar cell technologies related to the temperature in Amman, Jordan. Field data of weather station and three PV systems (Poly-crystalline, Mono-crystalline and Thin-film) of identical design parameters were collected from Test Field Project at Applied Science Private University, Shafa Badran, Amman, Jordan. These data were analysed in the following way. estimated specific energy yield (kWh/kWp) for the three different PV systems was calculated depending on the measured value of solar irradiance and technical specifications of the installed solar panels and inverters, then the actual energy yield at different temperatures over one year was compared with the estimated value, so the deviations could be determined and actual temperature coefficients for energy yield could be calculated, knowing that the three PV Systems have identical design parameters (tilt angle, azimuth angle, type and dimensions of mounting structure and inverter size) and same cleaning method and schedule. It was found that the thin-film solar panels are less affected by temperature with temperature coefficient of -0.0984%, and -0.109%, -0.124% for Mono-crystalline and Poly-crystalline respectively. These results can be implemented in the preliminary design steps, specifically in the selection of the solar cell technology to be installed in a specific location.