NOVELTY - The method involves studying a behavior (E1) of a photovoltaic element such as cell, in response to application of a beam of light output from a light source such as a matrix of electroluminescent diodes or LED. An electric parameter that is representative of operation of the photovoltaic element is measured (E1-1). An initialization phase (E2) is performed before the photovoltaic element behavior study phase. An operating temperature of the light source is adjusted (E2-1) according to emission power provided for studying the behavior of the photovoltaic element.    USE - Method for characterization of a photovoltaic element such as photovoltaic panel or an elementary photovoltaic cell.    ADVANTAGE - The operating temperature of the light source is adjusted according to the emission power provided for studying the behavior of the photovoltaic element, thus allowing characterization of the photovoltaic element in a correct and fast manner, while limiting characterization errors, and decreasing temperature of the diodes. The method allows statistical sampling in a short period of time, allows measurement of parameters in a very reproducible manner even in weak lighting conditions, and provides a better definition of the model of the photovoltaic element. The method allows performing of variable illumination method (VIM) analysis in a few minutes, thus improving online production of photovoltaic elements.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are also included for the following:    (1) a device for characterization of a photovoltaic element    (2) a recording medium comprising instructions for performing a method for characterization of a photovoltaic element    (3) a computer program comprising instructions for performing a method for characterization of a photovoltaic element.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The drawing shows a block diagram illustrating a method for characterization of a photovoltaic element.'(Drawing includes non-English language text)'    Step for studying a behavior of a photovoltaic element (E1)    Step for measuring electric parameter (E1-1)    Step for performing homogenization of light (E1-3)    Initialization phase (E2)    Step for adjusting operating temperature of light source (E2-1)