scope:

This International Standard series lays down IEC requirements for the design qualification of terrestrial photovoltaic modules suitable for long-term operation in open-air climates. The actual lifetime expectancy of modules so qualified will depend on their design, their environment and the conditions under which they are operated. Test results should not be construed as a quantitative prediction of module lifetime. In climates where 98th percential operating temperatures exceed 70 °C, users may want to consider testing to higher temperature test conditions as described in IEC TS 63126. This standard is intended to apply to all terrestrial flat plate module materials such as crystalline silicon module types as well as thin-film modules. It does not apply to systems that are not long-term applications, such as flexible modules installed in awnings or tenting. This standard does not apply to modules used with concentrated sunlight although it may be utilized for low concentrator modules (1 to 3 suns). For low concentration modules, all tests are performed using the current, voltage and power levels expected at the design concentration.