IEC 62862-1-5:2024

Overview

IEC 62862-1-5:2024 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for solar thermal electric plants. This part specifically provides a performance test code for solar thermal power plants based on any concentration technology, such as parabolic-trough collectors, central receiver systems (solar towers), or linear Fresnel collectors. The standard outlines comprehensive procedures and guidelines for acceptance and performance testing, defining how to measure, record, and evaluate key parameters such as solar radiation, energy consumption, net electricity generation, auxiliary energy use, and overall plant efficiency. It also references ISO/IEC Guide 98-3 for uncertainty levels related to measurement and testing. IEC 62862-1-5:2024 is applicable to plants of all sizes and configurations, including those with optional non-solar energy sources and thermal storage systems.

Key Topics

• Acceptance Testing Procedures: The standard describes detailed steps for planning and executing acceptance tests. It addresses both short-duration (at least 24 hours) and long-duration tests (up to 365 days).
• Performance Measurements: Guidelines are given for the instruments, measurement points, and methodologies necessary to assess:
  • Available solar radiation energy
  • Plant electricity consumption
  • Net electricity generation delivered to the grid
  • Non-solar (auxiliary) energy use
  • Net plant efficiency
• Simulation Model: Requirements for a calculation tool or simulation model are specified. This model is used as a reference for comparing measured plant performance against expected output, accounting for dynamic and transient processes during the test period.
• Test Planning: The standard mandates the preparation of a detailed test plan, describing all relevant activities, equipment calibrations, data recording methods, and uncertainty analysis methodologies.
• Data Reporting and Uncertainty: IEC 62862-1-5:2024 details how to document, present, and validate test results, including procedures for dealing with uncertainties in measurement (using ISO/IEC Guide 98-3).

Applications

Practical Value

Adherence to IEC 62862-1-5:2024 is essential for manufacturers, operators, contractors, and financiers of solar thermal power plants. The standard facilitates:

• Performance Validation: Certifying that new or upgraded solar thermal plants meet contractual energy output and efficiency claims.
• Regulatory Compliance: Satisfying legal and regulatory requirements for plant commissioning and ongoing operational assessment.
• Quality Assurance: Establishing a common, transparent basis for evaluating different solar thermal technologies and configurations.
• Investment Confidence: Providing financiers and stakeholders with reliable, internationally-accepted data on plant performance.
• Benchmarking and Optimization: Enabling comparison of plant performance over time or against industry peers and supporting continuous improvement.

Suitable Scenarios

• Acceptance testing during commissioning of new solar thermal plants
• Periodic performance verification for operational plants
• Assessment following significant plant upgrades or retrofits
• Performance-based contractual settlements

Related Standards

To ensure comprehensive compliance and integration, IEC 62862-1-5:2024 references and aligns with several related standards, including:

• IEC 60044-7: Instrument transformers - Part 7: Electronic voltage transformers
• IEC 60044-8: Instrument transformers - Part 8: Electronic current transformers
• IEC TS 62862-1-1: Solar thermal electric plants - Part 1-1: Terminology
• ISO/IEC Guide 98-3: Uncertainty of measurement - Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement (GUM:1995)

The broader IEC 62862 series covers additional topics related to solar thermal electric plants, and users are encouraged to consult these documents for terminologies, design, operation, and maintenance requirements.

In summary, IEC 62862-1-5:2024 offers a critical, standardized approach for measuring and verifying the performance of solar thermal electric power plants, driving transparency and quality across the solar industry.