pv magazine test

In 2017, pv magazine group launched the pv magazine test with its partners, Clean Energy Associates (CEA) and Gsolar. Hoymiles later joined as a fellow sponsor, providing its microinverter technology to the outdoor test array.

The pv magazine test involves a range of indoor tests, as well as an outdoor performance test in Gsolar’s test facility in Xi’an, China. Some of these tests are standard in the industry, while others are innovative and provide data on important module quality and performance issues.

It is the first testing program of its kind to offer comprehensive, independent module testing with an expert third-party witness present at all stages of the testing. This is a first in the PV industry, which, up until now, has conducted testing by one party with no outside expert witnesses.

pv magazine test involves a comprehensive series of procedures addressing the most important issues in module quality and performance, including the following:

Visual inspection
EL image inspection
Low irradiance and temperature behavior
PID (Potential Induced Degradation) resistance
LID (Light Induced Degradation) resistance, especially relevant to PERC modules. (Optional)
Outdoor performance test

The added value of pv magazine test:

An excellent way to demonstrate your reliability to investors using the high global visibility of the pv magazine trade media platform (print & online)
Measurements performed in a 1st class laboratory in China
Expert third-party witnessing of all testing procedures by Clean Energy Associates, a well-known advisory firm that has audited more than 125 manufacturers in the industry.

How does the test work?

Working alongside industry experts from CEA and Gsolar, pv magazine developed a comprehensive module testing program to provide the wide range of data required by PV investors, EPCs, developers and plant operators. The testing procedures are explained in the chart below:

One key aspect is the random sampling method, which ensures the modules being tested represent a cross-section of what is actually rolling off a manufacturer’s production line. More detailed descriptions of the testing procedures, provided by CEA’s Director of Technology and Quality, George Touloupas, are available in the following pv magazine publications:

September 2017 issue of pv magazine (global edition), Method for the modules
December 2017 issue of pv magazine (global edition), Building the benchmark

Have a look at the current test results here.

How do you benefit from the pv magazine test?

As a module manufacturer, the pv magazine test presents an ideal marketing opportunity to demonstrate the quality and reliability of your modules. It also lets you shine a light on cutting-edge new products, for example, PERC or bifacial products.

Boost your reputation among investors by participating in the pv magazine test!

Benefit from pv magazine’s international reach:

Results are published on the leading online sites in English, German, Chinese & Spanish
Optional: Receive customized print-outs to give directly to your customers.