From Indoor to Daylight Electroluminescence Imaging for PV Module Diagnostics: A Comprehensive Review of Techniques, Challenges, and AI-Driven Advancements
Rodrigo Del Prado Santamaría, Mahmoud Dhimish, Gisele Alves dos Reis Benatto, Thøger Kari, Peter Behrensdorff Poulsen, Sergiu Spataru
Abstract
This review paper presents a comprehensive analysis of electroluminescence (EL) imaging techniques for photovoltaic (PV) module diagnostics, focusing on advancements from conventional indoor imaging to outdoor and daylight EL imaging. It examines key challenges, including ambient light interference and environmental variability, and highlights innovations such as infrared-sensitive indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) cameras, optical filtering, and periodic current modulation to enhance defect detection. The review also explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven methodologies, including deep learning and generative adversarial networks (GANs), in automating defect classification and performance assessment. Additionally, the emergence of drone-based EL imaging has facilitated large-scale PV inspections with improved efficiency. By synthesizing recent advancements, this paper underscores the critical role of EL imaging in ensuring PV module reliability, optimizing performance, and supporting the long-term sustainability of solar energy systems.