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In Situ Monitoring of the Accelerated Performance Degradation of Solar Cells and Modules: A Case Study for CuIn,GaSe2 Solar Cells
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Reliability-oriented performance evaluation of PV inverters using wide bandgap semiconductors.
Sainadh Singh Kshatri1, Javed Dhillon2, Sachin Mishra2
1Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, B V Raju Institute of Technology, Narsapur, India.
Plos One
|April 30, 2026
Summary
Wide-bandgap semiconductors like silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) enhance photovoltaic inverter reliability and efficiency. These advanced materials significantly reduce energy losses compared to traditional components.
Area of Science:
- Power Electronics
- Semiconductor Devices
- Renewable Energy Systems
Background:
- Photovoltaic (PV) inverters are critical for grid-connected PV systems, but their reliability is a concern.
- Wide-bandgap (WBG) semiconductors offer potential for improved inverter performance and longevity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and evaluate a WBG semiconductor-based photovoltaic inverter using SiC MOSFETs and GaN HEMTs.
- To enhance the reliability and performance of grid-connected PV systems.
Main Methods:
- A 3 kW grid-connected PV inverter system in India was used for real-time Mission Profile (MP) evaluation.
- Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) with a two-parameter Weibull distribution modeled lifetime under environmental factors (solar irradiance, ambient temperature).
- B10 lifetime was calculated and analyzed against performance metrics like power, losses, and efficiency.
Main Results:
- WBG semiconductors significantly increase inverter reliability and efficiency.
- A 40% reduction in losses was observed compared to conventional IGBT inverters.
- Performance metrics including PV power, switch losses, inverter efficiency, and output power were analyzed.
Conclusions:
- WBG-based PV inverters demonstrate superior reliability and efficiency.
- The use of SiC MOSFETs and GaN HEMTs is a promising approach for next-generation PV systems.
- This technology contributes to more robust and efficient renewable energy integration.
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