Summary of studies that examine the effects of spectral solar radiation variations on PV (photovoltaic) device design and performance

The objective of this report is to summarize the published results of studies that examine the effects of variations in spectral solar radiation on the performance of photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules. In 1986, SERI's Resource Assessment and Instrumentation Branch initiated a joint study with participants from industry, universities, and the government to examine the response of PV devices to changes in the spectral content of solar radiation. The purpose was to encourage an awareness of natural, outdoor variations in spectral solar radiation and the effect these variations have on the outdoor performance of PV devices. This report summarizes the results of studies published by the participants, as well as many others. This summary report contains an overview of the relationship between spectral solar radiation and PV device response, a discussion of the magnitude and importance of spectral effects, methods for analyzing spectral effects, and suggestions for future analyses. The appendix contains 24 summaries of articles or reports that discuss spectral effects.