Batch Testing Options

While requiring Kiwa PVEL PQP testing on each of the PV modules bill(s) of materials combinations (BOMs) being procured is highly recommended, the PQP testing is only conducted on one pallet of modules as a BOM and design qualification testing. Therefore, PQP testing is not intended to answer the question of manufacturing consistency. Module batch testing is more focused on answering that, and can be customized to the project stakeholders’ risk profile and site conditions.

Examples of batch testing scopes include:

  • Static mechanical load and dynamic mechanical load test using the site’s tracker/racking mounting hardware and the required site design loads plus a 1.5x (or higher) safety factor. This is often performed on multiple samples to validate module durability consistency. Thermal cycling and humidity freeze testing can also be added following the load testing to complete the PQP’s mechanical stress sequence test. Static mechanical load testing to failure is another option to achieve higher statistical significance of module mechanical durability.
  • Third-party module characterizations including flash test measurements (front, rear and/or low light flashing), electroluminescence (EL) imaging, visual inspection by trained lab technicians, wet leakage electrical insulation testing and/or infrared imaging.
  • IEC 61215 test durations on a more statistically significant sample size and/or performed for each batch of modules produced, including thermal cycling for 200 cycles, damp heat for 1000 hours, potential-induced degradation testing for 96 or 192 hours, and shorter duration light-induced degradation and/or LETID testing.
  • PAN and/or IAM testing on modules destined for the project to obtain PAN files that yield increased accuracy for energy modelling/expected energy calculations. Accurate expected energy modelling can help identify sources of underperformance during site operations.

When batch testing reveals quality issues, investors can negotiate technical and financial remedies that safeguard future returns. Possible remedies include:

  • Demanding financial compensation
  • Securing additional spares modules
  • Negotiating more favorable warranty terms
  • Mandating quality improvements for subsequent batches

Contact Kiwa PVEL to discuss your project needs further and determine the testing that’s right for your project.