Abstract: A system for evaluation of soiling of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules may comprise a first pair of solar PV modules exposed to the elements, a second pair of solar PV modules enclosed within a protective housing having a glass cover; a component coupling the glass cover to the protective housing. The component may be configured to displace the glass cover for a limited period of time to temporarily expose the second pair of solar PV modules to the atmospheric elements.

Abstract: A system for evaluation of soiling of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules may comprise a first pair of solar PV modules exposed to the elements, a second pair of solar PV modules enclosed within a protective housing having a glass cover; a component coupling the glass cover to the protective housing. The component may be configured to displace the glass cover for a limited period of time to temporarily expose the second pair of solar PV modules to the atmospheric elements.

Abstract: Method for controlling a potential-induced degradation (PID) of a PV module. Embodiment includes modifying surface conductivity of the glass-cover of the PV module at least in proximity to an edge of the supporting frame to interrupt an electrically conductive path formed, between the supporting frame and the PV cell through the glass-cover, by ambient conditions. In a related embodiment, the electrically-insulating material is disposed between the glass-cover and the PV cell and. optionally, is additionally embedded in an encapsulating material in which the PV cell is embedded. Related embodiment includes assembling a PV module with a layer of electrically-insulating material configured to prevent the formation of such conductive path.