Overview
IEC TS 62910:2020 - Utility‑interconnected photovoltaic inverters - Test procedure for Under Voltage Ride‑Through (UVRT) measurements - is a Technical Specification from IEC TC 82 that defines recommended test procedures to evaluate UVRT behaviour of photovoltaic (PV) inverters. This second edition (2020) cancels and replaces the 2015 edition and provides a technical revision aimed at harmonizing UVRT testing where grid‑code requirements vary. The TS is primarily targeted at large utility‑interconnected PV systems (HV distribution) but its procedures can also be applied to LV installations where UVRT obligations exist.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope of testing: Procedures to assess inverter UVRT functions for a given factory or user‑set configuration; results are valid only for the tested configuration and require retesting for other settings.
- Test circuit and equipment: Describes required apparatus such as precision measuring instruments, DC source, short‑circuit emulator, and converter‑based grid simulator (voltage source with low internal resistance and optional broadband amplifiers).
- Test protocol: Defines test sequence components - pre‑test, no‑load test, load test, and tolerance limits - and generation of the UVRT curve (including highest point, inflection point and lowest point) used to select test points.
- Measurement accuracy and tolerances: Specifies instrument accuracy classes and tolerances for voltage drops and timing to ensure repeatable UVRT results.
- Assessment criteria: Outlines how to determine ride‑through time, reactive current response, and active power recovery for pass/fail evaluation.
- Guidance annexes: Informative annexes cover fault types, voltage drop modelling for different short‑circuit faults, and methods to determine critical UVRT performance values.
Applications
- Product testing and type‑approval of PV inverters to verify compliance with utility UVRT requirements.
- Certification and conformity assessment by test laboratories and independent bodies using consistent, repeatable UVRT procedures.
- Grid‑code validation and research for utilities and grid operators assessing inverter behaviour during voltage dips and system faults.
- System design and commissioning by integrators and manufacturers to confirm inverter settings and firmware meet required ride‑through performance.
Who should use this standard
- PV inverter manufacturers and R&D teams
- Accredited test laboratories and certification bodies
- Grid operators, utilities and regulators
- EPC contractors, system integrators and asset owners
Related guidance
- IEC TS 62910:2020 is intended to be used alongside applicable national or regional grid codes and other IEC standards for photovoltaic systems. Users should consult local requirements when selecting UVRT curves and K‑factor settings.
Keywords: IEC TS 62910:2020, UVRT, under voltage ride‑through, photovoltaic inverters, utility‑interconnected, test procedure, short‑circuit emulator, grid simulator, PV inverter testing.