PV Module Testing and Certification

VDE Renewables: for all your PV module testing and certification

We offer comprehensive testing and certification solutions for photovoltaic (PV) modules and components. Through our in-depth expertise in the latest standards and state-of-the-art technological developments, we can check and confirm the safety and reliability of your PV modules. We can test in our laboratories in North America, Europe and Asia.

PV module technology has made significant strides in the past years. This can be attributed to the large number of companies that entered the industry and invested in their R&D efforts. Another factor is the high amount of competition between players to improve module performance, which directly affects the bottom line of a PV System.

Overall system quality begins on the component level, and the VDE Renewables certification is tailored to support technical bankability on both the component and system-wide level.

Why PV module testing and certification?

“VDE Seal” fulfills your PV modules’ market entry requirements into Europe and many other international locations
To demonstrate the safety and reliability of PV modules in operations
To minimize risks for both the manufacturer and end user
Neutral testing by a third party fulfills the market requirements

Our track record

Certifier for half of top 10 PV module manufacturers
Evaluated over 2.8 GW of PV modules for buyers

VDE offers testing and certification according to

VDE, EN, IEC and UL standards

Photovoltaic modules (crystalline silicon, thin-film)
Mounting systems
Junction boxes

Environmental testing (salt-mist and ammoniac)
Certification for internationally recognized VDE marks

The quality standard of the VDE Quality Tested mark for PV modules offers distinct advantages in:

Superior level of consistent quality
Increased safety
Low power degradation
Lower risk for return on investment
Strong support for technical bankability

Contact our PV Modules and Components team to find out more.

Value-added services beyond international testing and certification

Most common IEC Standards used for PV Module testing:

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the leading global organization that prepares and publishes International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

IEC 61215: Terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) Modules – Design qualification and type approval

The purpose of these tests is to assess the electrical properties of the module and demonstrate, as feasibly as possible within reasonable cost and time constraints, that the module can endure extended outdoor exposure. These tests are designed for all terrestrial flat plate module materials, including crystalline silicon and thin-film modules.

IEC 61730: Photovoltaic (PV) module safety qualification – Requirements for construction

This section of IEC 61730 outlines the essential construction requirements for photovoltaic (PV) modules to ensure safe electrical and mechanical operation. It addresses specific areas to evaluate the prevention of electrical shock, fire hazards, and personal injury due to mechanical and environmental stresses. IEC 61730-1 covers construction requirements, while IEC 61730-2 details testing requirements. Modules with modified construction are qualified according to IEC TS 62915. This standard applies to all terrestrial flat plate module materials, including crystalline silicon and thin-film modules.

IEC 61701: Salt mist corrosion testing

Photovoltaic (PV) modules are electrical devices typically designed for continuous outdoor use throughout their lifespan. However, highly corrosive wet environments, such as marine areas or locations near oceans and large saltwater bodies, can eventually degrade some components of PV modules. This includes corrosion of metallic parts and deterioration of non-metallic materials, such as protective coatings and plastics, due to salt assimilation. Such degradation can impair the modules' functionality. Temporary corrosive environments can also occur in areas where salt is used during winter to melt ice on roads and streets.

Tests are available to assess the resistance of various PV modules to corrosion from salt mist containing chloride compounds (e.g., NaCl, MgCl2). These tests can be applied to both flat plate and concentrator PV modules and assemblies.

IEC 62716: Photovoltaic (PV) modules – Ammonia corrosion testing

Photovoltaic (PV) modules are electrical devices designed for continuous outdoor exposure throughout their lifespan. Highly corrosive wet environments, such as those found in agricultural stables, can eventually degrade some components of PV modules. This degradation includes corrosion of metallic parts and deterioration of non-metallic materials, such as protective coatings and plastics, due to ammonia assimilation. Such damage can impair their functionality and safe operation.

This standard outlines test sequences that are useful for determining the resistance of PV modules to ammonia (NH3).

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