IEC EN 61215-1-2 Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules - Test for Thin-film Cadmium Telluride Based Photovoltaic Modules

EUROLAB, with its state-of-the-art accredited laboratories and expert team, provides precise and fast testing services within the scope of IEC EN 61215-1-2 testing. This standard sets out the requirements for the design competence of terrestrial photovoltaic modules suitable for long-term operation in outdoor climates.

The useful service life of modules so qualified will depend on their design, their environment and the conditions in which they are operated. Test results are not to be interpreted as a quantitative estimate of module life. In climates where percent operating temperatures exceed 70°C, users are advised to consider testing under higher temperature test conditions as described in IEC TS 63126. Users seeking qualification of PV products with a lower life expectancy are recommended to consider tests designed for PV in consumer environments.

Users who want to ensure that the properties tested in IEC EN 61215 appear consistently in a manufactured product may wish to use IEC EN 62941 regarding quality systems in PV manufacturing. This standard is intended to apply to all thin-film CdTe-based terrestrial flat plate modules.

As such, it addresses the specific requirements for testing this technology, complementing the requirements of IEC EN 61215-1 and IEC EN 61215-2 for testing. While this standard can be used for low concentrator modules (1 to 3 suns), it does not apply to modules used with intense sunlight.

For low concentration modules, all tests are performed using the expected irradiance, current, voltage, and power levels at the design concentration. Acceleration factors may vary by product design and therefore not all degradation mechanisms may occur. More general information on accelerated testing methods, including definitions of terms, can be found in IEC EN 62506.

EUROLAB assists manufacturers with IEC EN 61215-1-2 test compliance. Our test experts, with their professional working mission and principles, provide you, our manufacturers and suppliers, the best service and controlled testing process in our laboratories. Thanks to these services, businesses receive more effective, high-performance and quality testing services and provide safe, fast and uninterrupted service to their customers.