Title:	Results of the International PV Module Quality Assurance Forum and the Road Ahead
Author(s):	T. Sample, S. Kurtz, J. Wohlgemuth, M. Yamamichi, J. Amano, P. Hacke, M. Kempe, M. Kondo, T. Doi, K. Otani
Keywords:	Photovoltaic (PV) Module, Qualification and Testing, Reliability, Durability
Topic:	Components for PV Systems
Subtopic:	PV Modules
Event:	26th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition
Session:	4AV.2.60
Pages:	3661 - 3664
ISBN:	3-936338-27-2
Paper DOI:	10.4229/26thEUPVSEC2011-4AV.2.60
Price:	0,00 EUR
Document(s):	paper

Abstract/Summary:

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Currently, no test can quantify a module’s lifetime with confidence, but stress tests are routinely used to differentiate PV product designs. This paper evaluates the need for quality assurance (QA) standards and outlines a path for creating these via the International PV Module QA Forum, which was held in San Francisco July 15-16 2011. The Forum resulted in the formation of five Task Groups to work on the following areas; Task Group 1: PV QA Guideline for manufacturing consistency; Task Group 2: PV QA Testing for thermal and mechanical fatigue including vibration; Task Group 3: PV QA Testing for humidity, temperature, and voltage; Task Group 4: PV QA Testing for diodes, shading and reverse bias; Task Group 5: PV QA Testing for UV, temperature and humidity.