How Are Solar Panels Tested Before They are Sold?

 

This question is part of the Super Big Solar Panel FAQ from Solar Mango, where expert answers to over 100 important questions on solar panels are provided.

 

Solar panels are supposed to last 25 years and beyond.

It is hence important that they get tested fully before they are shipped to the market.

A wide range of tests are performed on solar panels by independent testing companies such as UL and TuV.

Based on these tests, the panels are provided specific certifications based on IEC standards. Many module makers go beyond what has been prescribed by IEC, both in terms of the types of testing, as well as the rigour with which the tests are done.

Details of some of the tests carried out by the panel makers are given below.

Standard IEC / UL testing

Light soak stabilisation

Super Big Solar Panel FAQGet to know answers to over 100 important questions on solar panels from here.

 

Accelerated aging

Repeated challenge testing

Fire resistance testing

Salt mist testing

Test-to-Fail

Evaluation of c-Si and thin-film PV technologies

Potential Induced Degradation (PID)

Other non-standard testing

 

Here are some interesting links that provide more details of testing done for solar panels

Basic Understanding of IEC Standard Testing for Solar Panels – TUV America

Testing Methodologies for Deploying High Performance Solar Modules – SunPower

PV Module Qualification Plus Testing – NREL

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