NABCEP Solar PV Fundamentals 2

Question 1

What is the term for the voltage a PV module produces under open-circuit conditions with no load connected?

Accepted Answer

Open-circuit voltage (Voc)

Answer

Open-circuit voltage (Voc) is the maximum voltage a module produces when no current is flowing through it.

Question 2

Which semiconductor material is used in the majority of commercially installed crystalline silicon PV modules?

Accepted Answer

Monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon

Answer

Monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon dominate the commercial PV market due to high efficiency and established manufacturing.

Question 3

How does increasing cell temperature affect the power output of a crystalline silicon PV module?

Accepted Answer

Power decreases primarily due to reduced Voc

Answer

Higher temperatures reduce Voc more than they increase Isc, resulting in a net decrease in module power output.

Question 4

What is the standard test condition (STC) irradiance value used to rate PV module output?

Accepted Answer

1000 W/m²

Answer

STC specifies 1000 W/m² irradiance, 25°C cell temperature, and an AM1.5 solar spectrum.

Question 5

In a PV I-V curve, where does the module operate to deliver maximum power?

Accepted Answer

At the knee of the curve where the product V×I is maximized

Answer

The maximum power point (MPP) is located at the knee of the I-V curve where the product of voltage and current is greatest.

(NABCEP) North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners Solar Practice Test