The performance of 21 PV-powered low pressure sodium lighting systems on a multi-use pathway has been documented in this paper. Specific areas for evaluation include the vandal resistant PV modules, constant voltage and onloff PV charge controllers, flooded deep-cycle leadantimony and valve regulated lead-acid (VRIA) gel batteries, and low pressure sodium ballasts and lights. The PV lighting system maintenance intervals and lessons learned have been documented over the past 2.5-years. The above performance data has shown that with careful hardware selection, installation, and maintenance intervals the PV lighting systems will operate reliability.

The Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology Program (PVMaT) program began in 1990 as a cost-shared partnership among the US photovoltaic industry and the US Photovoltaic Program. Balancesf-systems @OS) components and concepts were included under Phase 4A1 of the program. BOS contracts ranged from newly developed AC PV modules to lOOkW inverters for photovoltaic applications. Utility-interactive, stand-alone and hybrid components were also improved, while better manufacturing processes were developed. Specific products developed through Phase 4A1 contracts included AC modules and module integrated inverters, an advanced polymer system to reduce BOS costs, low cost integrated tracking PV systems, improved inverters, new concept inverters, communications links for BOS, and advanced modular PV systems for remote applications. This paper summarizes the research and development work, presents product and applications improvements, and describes manufacturing improvements while analyzing performance and cost benefits.

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Abstract. Battery testing for photovoltaic (PV) applications is funded at Sandia under the Department of Energy's (DOE) Photovoltaic Balance of Systems (BOS) Program. The goal of the PV BOS program is to improve PV system component design, operation, reliability, and to reduce overall life-cycle costs. The Sandia battery testing program consists of: 1) PV battery and charge controller market survey, 2) battery performance and life-cycle testing, 3) PV charge controller development, and 4) system field testing. Test results from this work have identified market size and trends, PV battery test procedures, application guidelines, and needed hardware improvements.