IEC 60904-1-1:2017

Overview

IEC 60904-1-1:2017 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines procedures for the measurement of current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of multi-junction photovoltaic (PV) devices under natural or simulated sunlight. This standard ensures consistency and accuracy in the testing of a range of multi-junction PV devices, from single cells and cell sub-assemblies to complete PV modules. While it primarily targets non-concentrating multi-junction PV devices, parts of the standard may also apply to concentrating devices. The document builds upon methodologies introduced for single-junction devices and introduces specific requirements for multi-junction configurations, making it a foundational reference for PV testing labs, manufacturers, and researchers working with advanced photovoltaic technologies.

Key Topics

• Measurement Procedures: Describes step-by-step procedures for obtaining I-V characteristics of multi-junction PV devices, addressing both natural and simulated sunlight conditions.
• Spectral Responsivity: Emphasizes the importance of understanding the spectral responsivity of each junction in a multi-junction device, a prerequisite for accurate measurements.
• Reference Devices: Outlines selection criteria for reference devices, either matched or broadband, to ensure alignment with the spectral response of the test device.
• Solar Simulators: Specifies requirements for solar simulators (preferably class AAA according to IEC 60904-9), including adjustable and fixed spectral irradiance configurations.
• Measurement Conditions: Details permissible deviations from reference conditions, and mandates reporting of spectral match, irradiance, and uncertainty for transparent and comparable results.
• Data Analysis: Outlines methods for analysis and correction of measured data, emphasizing the need for uncertainty evaluations and, where appropriate, spectral mismatch corrections.

Applications

IEC 60904-1-1:2017 is widely applicable in the fields of photovoltaic research, product development, testing, and certification. Its procedures are essential for:

• PV Manufacturers: Standardizing performance evaluations of new multi-junction PV modules and cells, ensuring market and quality claims are substantiated.
• Testing Laboratories: Providing consistent, internationally recognized techniques for third-party validation and certification programs.
• Research & Development: Supporting the characterization and comparison of advanced multi-junction solar cell technologies, both under real-sun and controlled laboratory environments.
• Quality Assurance: Enabling thorough reporting and traceability of test results, including the handling of measurement uncertainties and spectral mismatches.
• Emerging PV Technologies: Facilitating the adoption of new, high-efficiency multi-junction devices by establishing trusted measurement protocols accepted globally.

Compliance with IEC 60904-1-1:2017 not only assures the credibility of PV device performance claims but also supports integration into broader renewable energy systems, where accurate and reproducible performance data are critical for system design and yield forecasting.

Related Standards

To implement IEC 60904-1-1:2017 effectively, awareness of related international standards is important:

• IEC 60904-1: Measurement procedures for single-junction photovoltaic device current-voltage characteristics.
• IEC 60904-8-1: Spectral responsivity measurement for multi-junction PV devices - a prerequisite for IEC 60904-1-1.
• IEC 60904-2: Requirements for photovoltaic reference devices.
• IEC 60904-3: Reference spectral irradiance data for terrestrial PV devices.
• IEC 60904-7: Computation of spectral mismatch correction.
• IEC 60904-9: Solar simulator performance requirements for laboratory testing.
• IEC 60891: Temperature and irradiance corrections for measured I-V characteristics.

By integrating IEC 60904-1-1:2017 into quality control and design processes, industry stakeholders can achieve higher reliability and global acceptance for multi-junction PV devices. This supports the advancement of solar energy technology and the ongoing transition to sustainable energy solutions.