IEC 61427-2:2015

Overview

IEC 61427-2:2015 (Consolidated Edition 1.1 2024-03) defines general requirements and methods of test for secondary (rechargeable) batteries used in on‑grid electrical energy storage (EES). It is chemistry‑neutral and applies to all secondary battery types intended to operate connected-via power conversion devices-to regional, national or continental electricity grids. The standard focuses on verifying battery endurance, electrical properties and performance in grid‑stabilizing roles; note that related power conversion and interface equipment are not covered by this part.

Key Topics

• Battery endurance tests for common grid services:
  • Frequency‑regulation service
  • Load‑following service
  • Peak‑power shaving service
  • Photovoltaic (PV) time‑shift (daily energy shift)
• General test conditions and measurement requirements:
  • Accuracy of voltage, current, temperature and time measurements
  • Test object selection and sizing (full‑sized battery (FSB) vs test‑object battery (TOB))
  • Test planning and sequencing for endurance and performance measurement
• Performance metrics and methods:
  • Determination of energy content at +25 °C
  • Energy efficiency during endurance cycles (including min/max ambient temperatures)
  • Determination of waste heat generation and idle‑state energy requirements
  • State of Charge (SoC) maintenance parameters during tests
• Supporting content:
  • Informative annexes on battery‑related hazards and a supplemental frequency‑regulation profile for extended evaluation

Applications

IEC 61427-2 is intended for practical use in:

• Battery manufacturers validating cell/module/system performance for grid services
• Test laboratories and certification bodies performing standardized endurance and efficiency testing
• System integrators and EPCs specifying battery performance for on‑grid renewable projects
• Grid operators and asset owners evaluating technology suitability for frequency regulation, load following, peak shaving or PV time‑shift applications
• R&D teams comparing chemistries and control strategies under standardized duty cycles

Using the standard helps ensure repeatable, comparable test results for grid‑scale batteries and supports procurement specifications, type testing and lifecycle performance assessments.

Related Standards

• Other parts of the IEC 61427 series (e.g., the off‑grid application part) cover renewable energy storage test methods for different use cases.
• For full compliance and integration, users should consider related IEC publications on battery safety, testing and performance measurement when developing test plans or certification scopes.

Keywords: IEC 61427-2, on-grid battery testing, renewable energy storage, battery endurance tests, grid-scale batteries, battery performance standard.