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RS EAS 365: 2005
Thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules — Design qualification and type approval

Abstract

This East African Standard lays down requirements for the design qualification and type approval of terrestrial thin-film photovoltaic modules suitable for long-term operation in moderate open-air limates, as defined in IEC 60721-2-1. It is written with amorphous silicon technology in mind, but may also be applicable to other thin-film PV modules. Modifications to this test sequence may be necessary due to the specific characteristics of these other new technologies.
The test sequence is based largely on that specified in CD/K/05/2003 for the design qualification and type approval of terrestrial crystalline silicon modules. However, some changes have been made to account for the special features of amorphous silicon thin-film modules. Light-soaking is used to
separate light-induced degradation from other degradation mechanisms, and to provide the maximum power at the end of the test sequence as an estimate of the long-term performance of thin-film
modules. Modules are annealed before thermal cycling and damp heat tests in order to separate the annealing effects from any degradation resulting from these tests. For thin-film technologies other than amorphous silicon, pre-treatments such as light-soaking and annealing may differ or may prove unnecessary. A wet leakage current test has been added because all types of thin-film modules are susceptible to moisture-induced corrosion.
The object of this test sequence is to determine the electrical and thermal characteristics of the
module and to show, as far as is possible within reasonable constraints of cost and time, that the module is capable of withstanding prolonged exposure in climates described in the scope. The actual lifetime expectancy of modules so qualified will depend on their design, their environment and the conditions under which they are operated.

This standard does not apply to modules used with concentrators.

General Information

Code	Classification	Theme	Pages	Publisher	Availability
RS EAS 365: 2005	EAST AFRICAN STANDARDS	Electrical engineering	45	First Edition Feb 2021	Available