Photovoltaic solar power generation standards

What is photovoltaic reliability and standards development?

The reliability of photovoltaic (PV) systems refers to the ability of these technologies to dependably produce power over a long and predictable service lifetime. The ability to stand up to a variety of weather conditions also contributes to the reliability of these systems.

What are PV standards?

The standards series has been recognized by the World Bank and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Such standards also serve as the basis for testing and certification of components, devices, and systems. Two of the IEC Conformity Assessment Systems deal with PV parts, systems and installations.

Why should solar energy systems be standardized?

Standardization also provides a common language and framework fostering interoperability, efficiency, safety and overall reliability. IEC TC 82: Solar photovoltaic energy systems, produces international standards enabling systems to convert solar power into electrical energy.

Why do we need a performance guarantee for a large photovoltaic system?

Documentation of the energy yield of a large photovoltaic (PV) system over a substantial period can be useful to measure a performance guarantee, as an assessment of the health of the system, for verification of a performance model to then be applied to a new system, or for a variety of other purposes.

Why are standards important in the solar PV industry?

Box 9. THE IMPORTENCE OF STANDARDS IN THE SOLAR PV INDUSTRY Standards are essential for ensuring safety and quality in the solar PV sector, especially because the reliability, performance and durability of solar equipment is critical to ensuring smooth operation of solar power plants.

Are photovoltaic solar energy systems safe?

The safe and reliable installation of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems and their integration with the nation’s electric grid requires timely development of the foundational codes and standards governing solar deployment.