ASTM E2527-09

It is the intent of this test method to provide a recognized procedure for testing and reporting the electrical performance of a photovoltaic concentrator module or system.

If an inverter is used as part of the system, this test method can provide a dc or ac rating or both. The dc or ac rating depends on whether the inverter input or output is monitored.

The test results may be used for comparison among a group of modules or systems from a single source. They also may be used to compare diverse designs, such as products from different manufacturers. Repeated measurements of the same module or system may be used for the study of changes in device performance over a long period of time or as a result of stress testing.

The test method is limited to modules and systems where the concentrated irradiance on the component cells is greater than 5000 Wm^-2 at E_o. This limitation is necessary because the total irradiance is measured with a radiometer with a field of view less than 6° and because the correlation between the direct irradiance and the power produced decreases with increasing concentrator field of view.

This test method assumes that the regression equation accurately predicts the concentrator performance as a function of total irradiance with a fixed spectral irradiance, wind speed, and air temperature. The spectral distribution will be seasonal and site specific because of optical air mass, water vapor, aerosols, and other meteorological variables.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the electrical performance of photovoltaic concentrator modules and systems under natural sunlight using a normal incidence pyrheliometer.

1.2 The test method is limited to module assemblies and systems where the geometric concentration ratio specified by the manufacturer is greater than 5.

1.3 This test method applies to concentrators that use passive cooling where the cell temperature is related to the air temperature.

1.4 Measurements under a variety of conditions are allowed; results are reported under a select set of concentrator reporting conditions to facilitate comparison of results.

1.5 This test method applies only to concentrator terrestrial modules and systems.

1.6 This test method assumes that the module or system electrical performance characteristics do not change during the period of test.

1.7 The performance rating determined by this test method applies only at the period of the test, and implies no past or future performance level.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.