Does Iraq need a solar PV system?

The increasing global demand for renewable energy necessitates a comprehensive understanding of solar photovoltaic (PV) system performance and reliability, particularly in harsh climates such as Iraq. Despite ambitious targets to diversify its energy sector, Iraq faces challenges in the deployment of PV projects due to limited field experience.

Why is soiling a problem for PV installations in Iraq?

Unfortunately, soiling is a significant and frequent climate challenge for PV installations in higher irradiance regions like Iraq. This is due to the high concentration of particles in the air, periodic dust storms and limited rainfalls in these regions .

What is the degradation rate of electrical modules in Baghdad and Basrah?

Boxplots of the annual degradation rates of different electrical parameters for module installed in Baghdad and Basrah. The values shown in the figures are the median values. The median degradation rate of Pmax is 2.6 %/year in Baghdad and 0.91 %/year in Basrah.

What is the degradation rate of encapsulant in Basrah & Baghdad?

Field analysis reveals prevalent issues including glass and cell breakage, delamination, solder bond fatigue, and encapsulant discoloration, contributing to medium degradation rates of 0.91 %/year and 2.6 %/year in Basrah and Baghdad, respectively.

Why is performance degradation a problem in Baghdad?

One key observation is that the evaluated performance degradation rate, especially in Baghdad, is not only linked to ageing but also to poor O&M practices which leads to acceleration of module failure.

What is the degradation rate of Pmax in Baghdad & Basrah?

The values shown in the figures are the median values. The median degradation rate of Pmax is 2.6 %/year in Baghdad and 0.91 %/year in Basrah. Given that manufacturers provide warranties between 25 and 30 years, the degradation rates to achieve these warranties should not be more than 0.8–0.67 %/year respectively.