SolFocus module becomes first concentrator PV product to meet IEC 62108 standard

SolFocus's SF-1000P module has become the first concentrator photovoltaic product to meet the rigorous performance, qualification, and safety criteria of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 62108 standard. Certification specialist Six 9’s Reliable and the Photovoltaic Testing Lab TÜV Rheinland PTL worked with the CPV company to achieve the IEC certification.

The SolFocus system met all requirements of the IEC 62108 standard, which specifies the design qualification and type approval of CPV modules and assemblies suitable for long-term operation in general open-air climates. The electrical, mechanical, and thermal characteristics of the system were demonstrated to be safe, high-performing, and capable of withstanding prolonged exposure in varied climates.

The IEC 62108 standard for photovoltaic concentrators and receivers was created to verify the safety, photoelectric performance, and environmental reliability of panels designed with CPV technology and ready to be introduced to this emerging marketplace. The standard was designed to be universal, taking into account different environments and manufacturing technologies across geographies.

SolFocus has also just had its SF-1100 modules approved by the California Energy Commission (CEC) to be placed on the eligible California Solar Initiative solar electric equipment list, which ensures customers that the solar gear has been thoroughly tested for safety and meets the requirements of the CEC. SolFocus remains the only CPV system manufacturer to achieve CEC listing.

"The real-world testing conducted for the IEC CPV standard proves that SolFocus systems meet both the performance, qualification, and reliability criteria, critical in bringing CPV to a truly global scale," said Mark Crowley, president/CEO of SolFocus.

"We have already proven that CPV can yield nearly twice the efficiency of traditional PV systems, but meeting the IEC's rigorous CPV requirements proves that SolFocus systems can perform consistently across a variety of climates and environments. This validation sends a message to developers, investors, and customers that CPV is on track to global commercialization."