Interim qualification tests and procedures for terrestrial photovoltaic thin-film flat-plate modules

Recommended procedures and specifications are presented for qualification tests to evaluate terrestrial thin-film flat-plate photovoltaic (PV) nonconcentrating modules designed for power generation. The qualification tests are designed to evaluate PV module design performance and susceptibility to known failure mechanisms. Emphasis is placed on testing and evaluating module performance characteristics and design features that will affect the degradation of module performance and physical properties resulting from solar exposure, environmental weathering, mechanical loading, corrosion, and module shadowing. The primary intent is to provide the minimum tests and inspections required to evaluate PV modules and to provide a common approach (e.g., between producer and purchaser) in conducting qualification tests