Current projects that have been authorized by the IEEE SA Standards Board to develop a standard. Tests to determine the performance of stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) systems and for verifying PV system design are presented in this recommended practice. These tests apply only to complete systems with a defined load.
First, to regulate system design and battery function: IEC 62124 for stand-alone PV system design recommendations and PV performance evaluation (including battery testing and recovery after periods of low state-of-charge) in a variety of climatic conditions, and IEC 62509 for battery charge controllers.
At least three regulatory levels for the production, installation, operation and end of life of photovoltaic systems can be considered. Additionally, the Life Cycle Assessment methodology is also regulated by standards. In this chapter, the three levels are presented.
Tests to determine the performance of stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) systems and for verifying PV system design are presented in this recommended practice. These tests apply only to complete systems with a defined load. The methodology includes testing the system outdoors in prevailing conditions and indoors under simulated conditions.
This recommended practice is applicable to all stand-alone PV systems where PV is the only charging source. This recommended practice does not include PV hybrid systems nor grid-connected systems. This recommended practice covers lead-acid batteries only; nickel-cadmium and other battery types are not included.
There are currently 169 published IEC standards by TC-82 related to photovoltaic technology, and work is in progress for 69 more (new ones or revisions). This set of standards is the most broadly used by the scientific community and technicians in research centres and companies.