This paper introduces a proposed approach to estimate the optimal parameters of the photovoltaic (PV) modules using in-field outdoor measurements and manufacturers' datasheet as well as employing the nonlinear least-squares fitting algorithm. The main goal is to determine the optimal parameter values of the implemented model which are: series resistance, reverse saturation current, photocurrent, ideality factor and shunt resistance in case of the five parameters model. A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet is developed in order to perform modeling and analysis of the parameters analytical initial values using manufacturer datasheet specifications regarding to the changing in solar irradiance and ambient temperature. Then, the sum of the squared residuals between in-field measured and simulated data are calculated and minimized using Excel solver in order to obtain the optimal values of the parameters simultaneously, to describe the best fit for the outdoor measured data. The proposed approach is used to find the optimal parameters of the PV module TRINA TSM-295 using an array tester. The convergence confidences of the estimated parameters are presented and assessed in an easy way. This approach allows all parameters to be optimized, simultaneously. The results are verified and compared with other research studies for different PV cell technologies. The obtained results are useful for the tested PV module manufacturer and assess the performance of the products in different weather conditions.

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