Normally, there are two types of solar panel testing conditions, Standard Test Conditions (STC) and (Nominal Operating Cell Temperature) NOCT. Learning the difference between them is not only important for learning purposes, but it will also give you an insight into how to compare these two which will ultimately help you in the buying process.
The three main elements to the standard test conditions are “cell temperature”, “irradiance”, and “air mass” since it is these three basic conditions which affect a PV panels power output once they are installed.
The standard test conditions, or STC of a photovoltaic solar panel is used by a manufacturer as a way to define the electrical performance and characteristics of their photovoltaic panels and modules. We know that photovoltaic (PV) panels and modules are semiconductor devices that generate an electrical output when exposed directly to sunlight.
High Reliability and performance of solar panels are crucial for PV plant owners and private solar panel owners. In order to monitor both aspects, the photovoltaic industry relies on standardized testing conditions, known as STC (Standard Test Conditions) and NOCT (Normal Operating Cell Temperature.
International standards have been developed to do just that, and the electrical ratings displayed on solar panel datasheets follow these standards. Standard Test Conditions (STC) are the industry standard conditions under which all solar PV panels are tested to determine their rated power and other characteristics.
To estimate what’s the actual output of a solar panel, you first need to determine its size, power, and voltage output as well as the testing condition of the device. Normally, there are two types of solar panel testing conditions, Standard Test Conditions (STC) and (Nominal Operating Cell Temperature) NOCT.