1：Experimental Design and Method Selection:

The methodology involves collecting one year irradiance data from weather stations, running an inverter with a PV array simulator using the collected data, measuring the input and output power, recalculating the ηEURO of the inverter, formulating the weighted efficiency formula for the Equatorial climate (ηEQUA), and validating ηEQUA using data from a practical PV system.

2：Sample Selection and Data Sources:

The meteorological data of interest are collected from a dedicated weather station located at the Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Malaysia. The collected data are the horizontal or global irradiance (Gh), tilted (in-plane) irradiance (Gi), ambient temperature (Ta), and module temperature (Tm).

3：List of Experimental Equipment and Materials:

Two CMP11 secondary standard pyranometers are used to measure Gh and Gi. The HMP 155 ambient temperature sensor and the fast response thermocouple type E are utilized to measure Ta and Tm, respectively. The PV array simulator (PVAS) from Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) was used to emulate the PV modules of specific types.

4：Experimental Procedures and Operational Workflow:

The Gi data from the weather station was converted into a specific format that is readable using the PVAS. The output of the PVAS was connected to the tested inverter and the latter was tied to the grid. The electrical properties of the inverter, namely the input dc (VDC, IDC) and output ac (Vac and Iac), were logged using a PM 6000 power analyzer.

5：Data Analysis Methods:

The efficiency of the inverter (ηmeas) was obtained by measuring the output power (Pac) and input power (Pdc). The weighted efficiency was the sum of multiplication of the ηmeas_ave and weightage.