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 Why do companies invest huge resources into certifying their products? |
 The answer is not as simple as it first appears. There are several possible reasons that could spring to mind, but before going into that, let’s talk about who does the testing and what it is all about.
All certifications are done by qualified, world-renowned and approved laboratories.
Several tests have to be passed before authorisation can be given to sell a product in a determined country.
One example is the CE certification, which is issued for a product only if it has passed all the tests that are demanded by the European Union laws (IEC). The standards imposed by the IEC are recommended and most of the time required to obtain CE certification to trade certain products in the European market.
Photovoltaic panels are one of those products that can be traded only if CE certified, in accordance with IEC 61215 laws. Products are subjected to several tests in order to be certified. These are some of the most important ones:
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- Performance at STC (Standard Test Conditions)
Panels are tested in a sunlight simulator under STC (irradiance of 1000 W/m2 at 25 +/-2°C)
- Insulation test
Tests for high voltage and insulation resistance
- Measurement of NOCT (Normal Operating Cell Temperature)
To measure cell efficiency
- Performance of low irradiance
Performance at an irradiance of 200 W/m2
- Humidity freeze
Resistance of the panel at extreme temperature
- Mechanical Load test
Application of a uniform load corresponding to 2400Pa on the panel surface |
Once the panels are certified, the customer is assured of a consistent standard of quality.
Going back to the first question, "Why do companies invest huge resources into certifying their products?", it is now possible to give an answer:
1) Government regulations require it to ensure good quality and safety to consumers.
2) Companies don’t lose money financing replacements of bad-quality products.
The above is for information only. Legislation on IEC 61215 may change without prior notice.
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| Links to Certification Labs |
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| Certifications |
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| CE 61215 line 160 |
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| Certificate safety class II |
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