Solar Simulator Prototype With Halogen and LED Sources

Abstract Hybrid Solar Simulators (SS) using halogen lamps and LEDs, classified as A for spectral match and temporal instability, are primarily reported for characterizing small solar cells (∼160 cm2). However, spatial nonuniformity reports are rare. This manuscript presents the characterization of a large-area hybrid SS capable of simulating sunlight intensity and spectrum using a combination of 10 white LEDs, 6 halogen lamps, and power LEDs emitting at 450 nm (blue), 750 nm (magenta), and 850 nm (infrared). This setup ensures homogeneous light distribution over a 600 cm2 surface. The proposed SS was characterized according to the IEC 60904-9 standard, analyzing Spectral Match (SM), Spatial Non-Uniformity (SNU), and Temporal Instability (TI). The obtained values (SM = 1.29, SNU = 1.5%, and TI = 0.17%) classify the simulator as BAA. Electrical characterization of a 5W solar panel (300 cm2) was performed via current-voltage (I–V) and power-voltage (P–V) curves under indoor and outdoor conditions. A relative error of less than 4% was found compared to outdoor measurements, making it suitable for photovoltaic device testing. The results demonstrate the feasibility of developing a low-cost SS using incandescent and semiconductor light sources, with potential for characterizing commercial photovoltaic devices.