Project R-15850

Advanced Lifetime modelling and Condition Monitoring of power electronics for novel PV applications (ALiCE-PV) (Research)

ALiCE-PV addresses the challenge of a lack of failure data in PV converters and the inaccuracies of lifetime models, which often yield unrealistic predictions when extrapolated from accelerated testing. PV applications, such as Floating PV, Building-Integrated PV, and Agrivoltaics, expose converters to various stressors, including extreme temperatures, humidity, shading, and mechanical strain. These conditions induce failure modes that are either absent or understated in accelerated testing. ALiCE-PV proposes an integrated sensing platform to monitor stressors and damage indicators in power electronics, such as junction temperature, humidity, strain, and different electrical parameters. Condition monitoring and accelerated tests will be conducted in a controlled environment, replicating field conditions of different PV applications to validate the sensing platform and facilitate failure data collection. The project aims to identify and analyze root failure mechanisms by correlating stressors, damage-sensitive parameters, and failure rates. These correlations will form the foundation for developing hybrid lifetime models that combine multiple prediction techniques to provide accurate and reliable lifetime assessments of power electronics specific to PV applications in diverse climates. These lifetime models will be integrated into a digital twin, enabling the simulation of PV application mission profiles and their impact on the reliability of PV converters in the system.

01 October 2025 - 30 September 2026