Close-up images of three different PV modules with water stainsPhotovoltaics (PV) is a key technology for the transition to a climate-neutral energy supply. However, the long-term performance and reliability of PV modules are crucial for their economic viability and sustainability. A central challenge is moisture ingress into the modules, which can lead to power losses, material degradation, and safety-related damage. Currently, there are no practical, non-destructive methods for the early detection of moisture-related damage in PV modules. Existing approaches are limited to invasive or purely laboratory-based methods that are not suitable for widespread field application.
The aim of INSIGHT-PV is to develop non-destructive analytical and diagnostic methods for detecting and quantifying moisture in PV modules—both in laboratory settings and under real-world operating conditions. The innovative approach combines advanced spectroscopic and imaging techniques with data-driven evaluation methods (e.g., chemometrics and machine learning). This will allow for the early identification of moisture-related damage, investigation of its reversibility, and assessment of its impact on module performance and safety. In addition to material analysis, the project focuses on developing measurement systems that are suitable for use in industrial quality assurance and maintenance. The integration of such non-destructive methods into production and operational processes enables new strategies for condition monitoring and lifetime prediction of PV modules—particularly relevant for second-life applications. This represents a crucial step toward greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the PV sector.
INSIGHT-PV pursues several key objectives:
– Identification of suitable spectroscopic (e.g., NIR, UV fluorescence) and imaging-based methods for detecting moisture in PV modules
– Development, setup, and validation of non-destructive sensor systems for spatially resolved moisture measurement in laboratory and field environments
– Calibration and validation of the measurement methods against established reference techniques
– Investigation of the correlation between moisture ingress and electrical performance as well as safety-related effects
– Analysis of the reversibility of moisture impacts and evaluation of potential regeneration strategies
– Involvement of industrial partners to test and implement the developed methods in real PV installations and production facilities
The project makes a significant contribution to extending the operational lifetime of PV modules and reducing resource consumption and the CO₂ footprint per kilowatt-hour produced. It also promotes innovation in sensor technology, material analysis, and sustainable energy infrastructure (second-life applications). INSIGHT-PV thus lays the foundation for future-oriented quality assurance, investment security, and new business models in the photovoltaic industry.
Funding: FFG Energy Research 2025. This is an initiative of the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community (BMIMI) and the Energy and Climate Fund.
Projektconsortium:
Lead: SAL – Silicon Austria Labs
Partners:
OFI, SAL
Corporate Partners:
2ndCycle, SONNENKRAFT GmbH
