Overview
IEC 62670-3:2017 is an International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard focused on performance testing of photovoltaic concentrators (CPV). Specifically, it outlines procedures and instrumentation necessary for robust and repeatable performance measurements and power rating of CPV devices under both concentrator standard operating conditions (CSOC) and concentrator standard test conditions (CSTC), as defined in IEC 62670-1. By adhering to these guidelines, manufacturers, test laboratories, and system integrators can ensure precision and comparability in the evaluation and certification of CPV modules.
Key Topics
- Measurement Conditions: The standard specifies detailed environmental and operational conditions for tests, including irradiance, temperature, and spectrum characteristics.
- Instrumentation: Guidance is provided on the required instruments, such as solar simulators, pyrheliometers, pyranometers, reference cells, and temperature sensors, ensuring traceable measurements.
- Sampling and Test Procedures: Steps for sampling CPV devices, establishing marking, and gathering manufacturer data are defined to ensure consistent test results.
- Alignment and Tracking: Procedures for correctly aligning CPV modules and mounting them on solar trackers are included, taking into account pointing error and acceptance angle measurements.
- Temperature and Irradiance Corrections: Methods are given for compensating measured performance data to predefined reference conditions.
- Data Collection and Reporting: The standard specifies data requirements, analysis techniques, and standardized reporting formats, including uncertainty statements, in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025.
- Power Rating: Calculation of power output at CSOC and CSTC for accurate name-plate ratings is covered.
Applications
IEC 62670-3:2017 is widely used by multiple stakeholders in the solar energy sector:
- Manufacturers of CPV Modules: To validate product performance claims and support product certification.
- Independent Test Laboratories: For standardized performance verification, aiding in product comparisons and quality control.
- System Integrators and Developers: In project planning and due diligence, ensuring that selected CPV modules meet specified operational benchmarks.
- Certification Bodies: To assess conformity with international standards and facilitate global market access for CPV products.
- Research and Development Teams: In developing, benchmarking, and improving CPV technologies.
- Procurement and Quality Assurance: To ensure delivered products consistently match contractual power ratings and technical specifications.
Key benefits include improved transparency, increased confidence in performance metrics, and alignment with international best practices, enabling reliable integration of CPV technology into large- and small-scale solar projects.
Related Standards
IEC 62670-3:2017 should be used alongside other relevant standards for comprehensive CPV performance assessment:
- IEC 62670-1: Photovoltaic concentrators (CPV) - Standard conditions (defines CSOC and CSTC).
- IEC 60891: Procedures for temperature and irradiance corrections to measured I-V characteristics.
- IEC 60904 series: Photovoltaic devices - Requirements for reference devices and measurement principles.
- IEC 62817: Design qualification of solar trackers, crucial for accurate CPV alignment and tracking.
- ISO/IEC 17025: General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.
- ISO 2859-1: Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes.
- ISO 9060: Specification and classification of instruments for measuring solar radiation.
Conclusion
By establishing consistent procedures and reporting for the performance testing and power rating of CPV modules, IEC 62670-3:2017 supports the global adoption of concentrator photovoltaic technology. Its robust measurement and documentation framework underpins quality assurance, facilitates reliable product comparisons, and enhances confidence for investors, developers, and end-users in the solar power sector.
Keywords: IEC 62670-3, photovoltaic concentrators, CPV, performance testing, power rating, CSOC, CSTC, solar energy standards, IEC standards, solar tracker alignment, temperature correction, irradiance measurement, CPV certification.