Ensuring the Reliability of Photovoltaic Power Systems Using International Standards and the IECRE Conformity Assessment System

To help address the industry's needs for assuring the value and reducing the risk of investments in PV power plants; the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has established a new conformity assessment system for renewable energy (IECRE). There are presently important efforts underway to define the requirements for various types of PV system certificates, the rules for mutual acceptance of these certificates, and publication of the international standards upon which these certifications will be based. This paper presents a detailed analysis of the interrelationship of these activities for initiation of IECRE PV system certifications.