TÜV Rheinland Discusses Solar Energy Innovations and Testing Challenges at Cologne Conference

TÜV Rheinland Discusses Solar Energy Innovations and Testing Challenges at Cologne Conference

(IN BRIEF) TÜV Rheinland’s Solar Energy Conference in Cologne addressed key developments in photovoltaic technology, regulation, and testing. The event focused on the evolving standards for PV modules, the introduction of new technologies like perovskite cells, and the increasing number of failed initial tests on newly produced modules. TÜV Rheinland’s experts emphasized the importance of manufacturers aligning production processes with updated standards to ensure successful testing and timely market entry.

(PRESS RELEASE) COLOGNE, 17-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — On 12-13 February, TÜV Rheinland hosted the Solar Energy Conference in Cologne, where industry experts gathered to explore the latest advancements in technology, regulatory changes, and testing practices in the solar energy sector. Key topics included the rapid evolution of photovoltaic (PV) modules, new emerging technologies like perovskite cells, and updates to the standards governing PV module testing.

The PV market has seen significant progress, with larger and more affordable modules becoming available. New technologies are also gaining ground, such as perovskite cells, which are poised to reshape the solar landscape. However, with these advances come new challenges. The revision of the two primary international standards for PV modules, IEC 61215:2021 and IEC 61730:2023, has led to the introduction of additional or modified testing protocols. Among these are new bending, degradation, and mechanical stress tests, all of which manufacturers must pass before placing their products on the EU market.

According to Eckart Janknecht, solar testing expert at TÜV Rheinland, there is some positive news: “Several solar modules pass the new series of tests without any issues.” He also noted that, despite the increasing size of solar panels, there has been no significant change in the mechanical stress tests, meaning that modules remain just as resilient as before. However, Janknecht expressed concern over the rising number of failures in initial tests conducted on new modules straight from production, before undergoing stress testing in the lab. These defects, often linked to production errors or subpar materials, are something manufacturers need to address through more rigorous quality control measures.

Janknecht further emphasized that some manufacturers might not fully grasp the implications of the updated test series. “This doesn’t necessarily mean modules will fail the tests,” he clarified, “but manufacturers must adapt their production processes to align with the new standards. Proper preparation is essential for an efficient and effective testing process.” He recommended that manufacturers engage with testing specialists such as TÜV Rheinland early in the development phase to stay ahead of regulatory changes and avoid delays in their market launch.

With over 40 years of experience in solar technology, TÜV Rheinland has played a pivotal role in advancing solar energy systems. The company employs 1,000 experts globally, who carry out more than 50,000 tests annually across solar, storage, and power electronics sectors. These experts are also involved in developing new testing methods, working on research projects, and collaborating with standardization committees. TÜV Rheinland provides services related to the feasibility, financing, quality assurance, and warranty management of photovoltaic power plants, as well as testing and certification for modules, components, inverters, storage systems, and solar thermal collectors.

TÜV Rheinland operates solar testing laboratories across the globe, with facilities in Bangalore, Cologne, Milan, Shanghai, Taichung, and Pleasanton, and a network of 15 competence centers spanning Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe.

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SOURCE: TÜV Rheinland