Five types of photovoltaic (PV) modules were comparatively analyzed considering the electrical output, efficiency and relative loss in efficiency, based on infield data collected in a temperate mountain climate, over 14 months. The mono-, poly-crystalline silicon, CdTe, CIS and CIGS modules were mounted on two identical platforms, installed close to a row of buildings. Based on the data collected from individual or groups of modules on the two platforms, analyses focused on the photovoltaic output, considering: the mean monthly values; the influence of the neighboring buildings; the influence of the irradiance, temperature and wind in different seasons (winter, summer); the influence of tracking on each PV module type. The qualitative analysis shows that small PV platforms installed in the built environment require accurate investigations on the air currents with influence on snow and frost retention/melting and water vapor condensation. In the temperate climate, with snowy winters and rather warm summers, the best performing modules are of poly-crystalline silicon; among thin film modules, the best output corresponds to CIGS, while the steadiest efficiency corresponds to CdTe. Tracking has a "leveling" effect on the conversion efficiency, making the PV output more predictable during days with preponderant direct solar irradiance. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.