IEC 61215-1-3:2016

Overview

IEC 61215-1-3:2016 sets out the special requirements for the design qualification and type approval of terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules based on thin-film amorphous silicon (a-Si and a-Si/μc-Si) technology. Published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard ensures that amorphous silicon based PV modules are reliable and suitable for long-term operation in general open-air climates, as defined in IEC 60721-2-1. As a supplemental document to IEC 61215-1:2016 and IEC 61215-2:2016, it specifies additional testing and qualification requirements relevant to the unique properties of thin-film a-Si PV technologies.

By providing a technology-specific approach, IEC 61215-1-3:2016 supports consistent product quality, safety, and performance in the photovoltaic industry. Adhering to these international requirements gives manufacturers, purchasers, and regulators confidence in the durability and operational stability of amorphous silicon modules intended for terrestrial (non-concentrated) applications.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability

  • Applies to all flat plate terrestrial PV modules using thin-film amorphous silicon or combinations such as a-Si/μc-Si.
  • Supplements but does not replace the general IEC 61215-1 and IEC 61215-2 standards for PV module qualification and testing.
  • Not intended for modules used with concentrated sunlight, though it can apply to low-concentration modules (1 to 3 suns).

• Testing and Test Modifications

  • Establishes special measures for stabilizing module power output via indoor light soaking.
  • Specifies reproducibility limits for power measurement and introduces modifications to existing IEC testing protocols (such as for thermal cycling and stabilization).
  • Requires a sequence of performance, durability, and reliability tests, including visual inspection, power determination, insulation resistance, temperature coefficient measurement, mechanical load, environmental exposure, and others.

• Stabilization Procedures

  • Mandates specific light soaking protocols under controlled indoor conditions to ensure power output stabilization.
  • Removes the option for outdoor stabilization procedures due to the variable nature of environmental conditions.

• Reporting and Criteria

  • Outlines the criteria for pass/fail acceptance and the need for clear test reporting documentation, following modifications from IEC 61215-1 and -2.

Applications

• Module Manufacturer Qualification

  • Used by manufacturers for design qualification and type approval of thin-film amorphous silicon PV modules, confirming they meet international quality and durability benchmarks.

• Third-Party Certification

  • Supports certification bodies and testing laboratories in performing standardized evaluations of a-Si PV module products.

• Procurement and Compliance

  • Enables project developers, buyers, and financiers to specify and verify compliance with recognized IEC standards for PV modules intended for open-air terrestrial use.

• Market Access and Export

  • Facilitates global market access for manufacturers whose products meet IEC 61215-1-3 requirements, ensuring acceptance in regions that mandate or recommend IEC-certified PV modules.

Related Standards

• IEC 61215-1:2016
  General requirements for design qualification and type approval of terrestrial PV modules.

• IEC 61215-2:2016
  Specifies the testing procedures referenced by IEC 61215-1 and this standard.

• IEC 60721-2-1
  Environmental classification for open-air climates, referenced for module operation suitability.

• IEC 61646 (superseded)
  Formerly addressed thin-film PV modules, now functionally replaced by IEC 61215-1-3 for a-Si technologies.

By ensuring the robust testing and certification of amorphous silicon based PV modules, IEC 61215-1-3:2016 plays a crucial role in the advancement and credibility of thin-film photovoltaic technology in the global renewable energy sector.