New IEC standard for PV modules poses a challenge for front and backsheet manufacturers

To avoid bottlenecks: Manufacturers should have backsheets checked at an early stage / TÜV Rheinland provides support in ensuring market conformity: www.tuv.com/solar

Since October 2023, photovoltaic (PV) modules need to meet new safety requirements in accordance with the revised IEC 61730-1 and -2 standards. The changes include electrical safety and fire safety under mechanical and environmental stress.

One significant change is the use of front and backsheets. These are the covers of a PV module that protect the module from environmental influences such as moisture, dirt or mechanical stress, thus reducing the risk of short circuits or fires. For module certification, it is now necessary to qualify the front and backsheets used in accordance with the IEC 62788-2-1:2023-08 safety standard. However, many front and backsheet manufacturers still have some catching up to do, which is delaying the overall certification of PV modules to the new standard.

"What many manufacturers underestimate: Testing front and backsheets according to IEC 62788-2-1:2023-08 can take a very long time. Some long-term tests involve 5,000 test hours and run for up to 30 weeks," explains Roman Brück, solar and testing expert at TÜV Rheinland. "There is currently an oversupply of PV modules on the market. To avoid bottlenecks in the future, it is crucial for manufacturers to understand and comply with this new standard and to have the front and back sheets tested early in the project". TÜV Rheinland can help with testing and qualification services: www.tuv.com/solar