What does a certification mean for a solar module?

Basically, certifications per se do not tell much about the quality of a module. If you buy a solar module with IEC 61215/ 61730/ 61701 etc. certifications, it means that the certification-holding manufacturer managed to produce a few modules of that type that passed a standard's (e.g. IEC 61215) tests at the time of applying for certification.

What are the most common solar panel testing standards & certifications?

Below are some of the most common solar panel testing standards and certifications to look for when comparing solar panels: The IEC is a nonprofit establishing international assessment standards for electronic devices, including photovoltaic (PV) panels.

Where are PV Testing & Certification centers located?

Our state-of-the-art PV testing and certification centers provide both safety and performance testing from a single source, including facilities in: Shanghai, China; Taipei, Taiwan; Cortland, New York; and Lake Forest, California.

Are PV modules covered by a 20-year warranty?

It is common practice in the market to sell/buy PV modules covered by a 20+ year warranty. The warranty is supposed to cover safe operation (no electrical, thermal, mechanical and fire hazards) and acceptable level of performance, i.e. limited power output degradation (most declare 1% Pmax loss per year).

How does TÜV SÜD evaluate your PV modules?

TÜV SÜD evaluates the performance of your PV modules to ULC/ORD-C1703, UL 1703 and IEC 61730 safety standards as well as IEC 61215 and IEC 61646 performance standards. Our experts conduct factory audits that include initial and follow-up surveillance for manufacturing facilities.

Do solar panels pass IEC 61730?

That's where IEC 61730 comes in: this standard address the safety aspects of a solar panel, encompassing both an assessment of the module's construction and the testing requirements to evaluate electrical, mechanical, thermal, and fire safety. PV modules that successfully pass IEC 61730 tests run a low risk for these types of hazards.