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Why 4V4AH and 6V4AH Have Become the Preferred Power Source for Electronic Scales?

Electronic scales are essential tools in commercial, industrial, and home settings, where precision and stability are highly dependent on the performance of the power source. Among various battery options, 4V4AH and 6V4AH lead-acid batteries have become the mainstream choice in the industry due to their unique advantages. As a leading manufacturer of lead-acid batteries, Kaiying Power explains the reasons behind this:

 

basulas bateria 4Vcc

 

High Voltage Compatibility for Accurate Measurement

The circuit design of electronic scales typically requires stable low-voltage input (such as 4V or 6V) to ensure the precise operation of sensors and chips. The voltage output of 4V4AH and 6V4AH batteries perfectly matches the power requirements of electronic scales, preventing measurement errors caused by voltage fluctuations. This is especially critical in high-precision weighing scenarios, such as laboratories and pharmaceutical fields.

 

Balanced Capacity and Longevity

4AH Capacity: Provides long-lasting power, meeting the needs of electronic scales for extended standby or frequent use (e.g., retail checkout counters, logistics weighing stations).

 

Lead-Acid Battery Characteristics: Long cycle life and low self-discharge rate ensure stable power even when stored for long periods, reducing replacement frequency and maintenance costs.

 

basculas bateria 6Vcc

 

Compact Design and Strong Adaptability

Electronic scales often have limited internal space. The compact size and lightweight design of 4V4AH and 6V4AH batteries allow them to be easily integrated into various electronic scale structures, catering to both portable and fixed devices.

 

High Safety and Environmental Adaptability

Lead-acid batteries remain stable in complex environments, such as overcharging, high temperatures, or vibrations, with no risk of explosion. This meets the safety requirements for electronic scales used in industrial workshops and outdoor settings. Kaiying Power's batteries are even more reliable, with IP67 protection ratings and RoHS certification, ensuring environmental friendliness and durability.

 

Cost-Effective Solution

Compared to lithium batteries, lead-acid batteries are more cost-effective while offering recyclable environmental advantages. This makes them particularly suitable for enterprises that need to deploy electronic scales on a large scale, such as supermarket chains and warehouse management.

 

Kaiying Batteries' Commitment

As a professional lead-acid battery manufacturer, we provide customized power solutions for global electronic scale brands:

 

Strict Quality Control: Fully automated production lines ensure consistency in every battery.

 

Quick Response: Support for model customization and bulk delivery.

 

Global Certification: Adherence to international standards such as CE, UL, and ISO9001 ensures quality and reliability.

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Indian Customer Sithi Came to Carry Out Lithium Battery Cargo Inspection

Accompanied by the factory manager, the Indian customer went deep into the production workshop to learn more about the production process, quality control system and technological innovation of lithium batteries. The factory's professional technical team gave a comprehensive explanation to the customer on key indicators such as the performance advantages, safety measures and service life of lithium batteries, and demonstrated the product's charging and discharging performance and stability test on site.

 

Indian customers expressed high satisfaction with this inspection work and fully affirmed the professional level and rigorous attitude of Hefei Jubao New Energy Tech Co., Ltd. The two parties also had an in-depth discussion on the future expansion of cooperation in the Indian market, and look forward to bringing more high-quality and reliable lithium battery solutions to Indian consumers through continuous technological innovation and product optimization, and jointly promoting the vigorous development of the new energy industry in India.

 

This factory inspection not only deepened the mutual trust between the two parties, but also laid a solid foundation for Hefei Jubao New Energy Tech Co., Ltd. to further expand its overseas market. In the future, Hefei Jubao New Energy Tech Co., Ltd. will continue to uphold the concept of high-quality development, continuously improve product quality and service level, and work with global partners to create brilliance together.

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The 12V400Ah 5Kwh Battery Pack for RVs of Jubao New Energy Is Here!

 The 12V400Ah 5Kwh Battery Pack for RVs of Jubao New Energy Is Here! 

Jubao New Energy has brought you a new surprise - the newly produced 12V400Ah 5Kwh battery pack for RVs has made a brilliant debut!

We have a deep cooperation with Gotion, introducing its advanced technology and strict quality control system to carefully create high-quality battery products.

The biggest highlight of this battery pack is the amazing large capacity. The 5Kwh energy reserve is like a powerful energy treasury for your RV. It can easily meet various power demands on the RV, whether it's for lighting, cooking, or using various electrical appliances. With it, you don't need to worry about insufficient power during the journey. Whether it's a long-distance trip or camping in the wild, it can continuously and stably provide sufficient power support for your RV. Choosing this battery pack of Juba New Energy means choosing high quality and starting a worry-free RV journey. Come and experience it and enjoy the infinite wonderfulness of RV life!

 

Jubao New Energy

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Tips to make your low-speed vehicle battery last longer!

Do you own a low-speed vehicle, such as an electric bike or electric scooter? If so, you may find that Low-Speed Vehicle Battery life becomes a worrying issue. Fortunately, we have some simple ways to help you maintain and extend the life of your low-speed vehicle battery. Let's find out together!

 

Avoid overcharging and discharging: When using a low-speed vehicle, try to avoid overcharging and discharging the battery. Overcharging can cause the battery to overheat and lose capacity, while over-discharging can damage the battery's performance. So, when the battery is close to being exhausted, charge it in time to avoid long-term discharge or over-discharge.

 

Proper charging method: When charging, it is also important to choose the appropriate charging method. Use the charger provided by the original manufacturer or certified charging equipment, and avoid using an inappropriate charger to avoid damage to the battery.

 

Avoid high and low temperature environments: Batteries are sensitive to temperature, and too high or too low temperatures will have a negative impact on battery life. When storing batteries, choose a dry, ventilated place with a suitable temperature. In extreme weather conditions, try to avoid exposing the battery to overheating or over-cold environments for a long time.

 

Regular battery maintenance: Check the appearance and connection lines of the battery regularly to ensure that there is no damage or rust. Keep the battery dry and clean to prevent moisture from entering the battery. If you find any problems with the battery, ask a professional to repair or replace it in time.

 

Reasonable use of low-speed vehicles: The life of the battery of a low-speed vehicle is closely related to the way it is used. Try to avoid overloading and do not drive continuously at high speed for a long time. Reasonable use of low-speed mode and energy-saving mode can reduce the pressure on the battery and extend the battery life.

 

Fully charge and discharge: Try to keep the battery in the medium power range. Too frequent partial discharge and charging will cause additional pressure on the battery. So, don't always wait until the battery power is very low before charging, and don't always use the battery immediately after it is fully charged. Moderate charging and discharging is beneficial to extend the battery life.

 

By paying attention to the above tips, you can extend the life of the battery of a low-speed vehicle. Remember, maintaining the good condition of the battery is essential to ensure the reliability and long-term use of low-speed vehicles. I hope these tips can help you and enjoy longer low-speed travel!

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What are low-speed vehicle batteries and how do they differ from traditional car batteries?

With the increasing awareness of environmental protection and the demand for renewable energy, low-speed vehicle batteries have become a highly sought-after energy solution. Compared with traditional automotive batteries, low-speed vehicle batteries are very different in design and purpose.

 

First, low-speed vehicle batteries usually use lithium battery technology, while traditional automotive batteries usually use lead-acid battery technology. Lithium batteries generate current by the migration of lithium ions between positive and negative electrodes, while lead-acid batteries generate current through the chemical reaction between lead and sulfuric acid. Lithium batteries have significant advantages in energy density, charge and discharge efficiency, and life, so they are widely used in low-speed vehicles.

 

Second, low-speed vehicle batteries usually have a smaller capacity and lower voltage. Low-speed vehicles are mainly used for short-distance travel and urban driving, so the requirements for cruising range and maximum speed are relatively low. The design of low-speed vehicle batteries pays more attention to economy and practicality, using relatively small capacity battery packs to reduce costs and improve energy utilization.

 

In addition, low-speed vehicle batteries usually use a simpler management system. Traditional automotive batteries require complex battery management systems to monitor battery status, balance charge, and prevent overcharging and over-discharging. The management requirements for low-speed vehicle batteries are relatively low, and generally only simple protection modules are needed to ensure the safe operation of the battery.

 

In addition, the cost of low-speed vehicle batteries is relatively low. Traditional car batteries are expensive because they need to meet the requirements of high energy density and large capacity. Low-speed vehicle batteries have a smaller capacity and use relatively cheap lithium battery technology, making their cost more controllable and economical.

 

In summary, low-speed vehicle batteries are an energy solution designed specifically for urban travel and short-distance driving. Compared with traditional car batteries, they use lithium battery technology, simple design, low cost, and focus on economy and practicality. As the demand for sustainable travel increases, low-speed vehicle batteries are expected to be more widely used in the future.

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Advantages of Half-Cut Cell Solar PV Panels

How do half-cut solar cells work?

Half-cut solar cell technology increases the energy output of solar panels by reducing the size of the cells, so more can fit on the panel. The panel is then split in half so the top operates independently of the bottom, which means more energy is created – even if one half is shaded.

That’s the general overview – below, we break the process down.

Traditional monocrystalline solar panels usually have 60 to 72 solar cells, so when those cells are cut in half, the number of cells increases. Half-cut panels have 120 to 144 cells and are usually made with PERC technology, which offers higher module efficiency.

The cells are cut in half, very delicately, with a laser. By cutting these cells in half, the current within the cells is also halved, which essentially means that resistive losses from traveling energy via current are reduced, which, in turn, equals better performance.

Since the solar cells are cut in half, and are thereby reduced in size, they have more cells on the panel than traditional panels do. The panel itself is then split in half so that the top and bottom portions operate as two separate panels – generating energy even if one half is shaded.

The key to half-cut cell design is a different method of “series wiring” for the panel, or the way the solar cells are wired together and pass electricity through a bypass diode within a panel. The bypass diode, indicated by the red line in the images below, carries the electricity that the cells generate to the junction box.

In a traditional panel, when one cell is shaded or faulty and does not process energy, the entire row that is within the series wiring will stop producing power.

For example, let’s take a look at the traditional 3-string series wiring method:

With the traditional full cell string series wiring, shown above, if a solar cell in Row 1 does not have ample sunlight, every cell within that series will not produce energy. This knocks out a third of the panel.

A half-cut, 6-string solar panel works a bit differently:

If a solar cell in Row 1 is shaded, the cells within that row (and that row only) will stop producing power. Row 4 will continue to produce power, generating more energy than a traditional series wiring because only one-sixth of the panel has stopped producing power, instead of one-third.

You can also see that the panel itself is split in half, so there are 6 total cell groups instead of 3. The bypass diode connects in the middle of the panel, instead of on one side like the traditional wiring above.

What are the advantages of half-cut cells?

The advantages of half-cut cell panels are numerous.

They improve the power output and performance of solar modules because they offer a higher shade tolerance due to their unique wiring system. This means that if your home has some trees that cast shade onto your roof at certain times during the day, your entire solar panel will not be unusable, like it would with a traditional solar panel.

Another benefit is the fact that they usually offer a higher wattage than traditional panels, meaning they produce more power per square foot.

Additionally, the effects of hot spots are less severe on your solar panels with half-cut cells. Hot spots are the shifting of excess heat on a panel, say from a very hot part to the shaded, cooler section. With a half-cut cell, hot spots will not be as damaging because there are more cells to spread the excess heat to.

Half-cut cells also reduce power loss suffered by traditional panels by reducing internal resistance. Internal series resistance occurs just by the nature of energy traveling through the panel via electric current. But because solar cells are cut in half, there is less current generated from each cell, meaning less resistive losses.

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HJT or TOPCon? Which technology of N-Type Solar Cell will replace PERC?

Amid constant iteration in high-efficiency solar cell technology, domestic businesses have exceeded 23% in the efficiency of mass production at new PERC production lines in 2021, and managed to develop ceilings at an efficiency of almost 24%, which further solidifies the determination of domestic businesses in establishing additional production lines for the N-type solar cell.

N-type cells that have so far achieved a small-scale mass production (>1GW) include TOPCon, HJT, and IBC. According to the analysis of EnergyTrend, the capacity and market share of N-type cells started to elevate simultaneously since 2021, where the capacity of N-type cells is expected to arrive at 22GW at the end of 2021, while the market share is estimated to surpass 10% in 2023.

First-tier module makers have confirmed the deployment of N-type technology for 2021. In terms of product arrangement, Canadian Solar and Trina Solar are planning to sell HJT modules, while Longi and Hanwha are going to sell TOPCon solar modules. Jinko Solar has already started selling TOPCon module products, whereas Risen Energy plans to release module products that contain the technology of TOPCon and HJT. Pertaining to the establishment of production lines, Risen Energy has commenced the mass production on HJT modules, while CSI will be building a pilot scale production line for HJT, and JA Solar has completed the pilot scale production line for TOPCon before constructing the HJT production line scheduled for the second half of 2021. Jinko Solar has started the mass production for TOPCon modules, whereas the TOPCon cell factory of Longi is expected to go into operation in 2021.

Integrated businesses are focused on TOPCon, while the new capacity for N-type is centralized on HJT projects. The market arrangement for the TOPCon technology is primarily seen from integrated businesses such as Longi, Jinko Solar, and JA Solar right now. Most businesses have preserved space for TOPCon upgrades in their new PERC capacity since 2020. Numerous businesses are engaged in the HJT technology, including professional cell businesses, module makers, equipment integrators, and new businesses. Among them, Risen Energy, Akcome, GS Solar, and Meyer Burger are all planning to establish GW-grade HJT projects.

Stability in Mass Production is Essential as Ceilings Constantly Rise for Efficiency

Judging by the current cell efficiency, Longi has achieved a conversion efficiency of 24.1% within the laboratory, which is almost the theoretical limit of 24.5% for PERC cells. PERC technology has officially entered the post-change cycle with cell businesses gradually shifting to new technology pertaining to the emphasis of R&D, while the industry is accelerating on the approval of pilot and mass production lines for TOPCon, HJT, and IBC, so as to actuate the laboratory efficiency of the N-type cells to over 25%.

Differences in Conversion Rate are starting to expand between N-type cell and PERC. According to the latest progress announced by businesses, N-type HJT, TOPCon, and the existing PERC have respectively arrived at 25%, 24.5%, and 23.5% (Tongwei) in terms of the highest mass production conversion efficiency. In addition, an enormous level of investment from businesses was injected into N-type cells, which prompted the imminent mass production of TOPCon cells, and multiple businesses are making smooth progress in the pilot production lines of HJT, before marching towards GW-grade production.

N-type cells are still climbing in the efficiency of mass production, with stability yet to improve further. However, it is evident that N-type HBC and tandem cell technologies are also in the midst of the R&D phase, with further room for improvement in terms of the conversion efficiency.

Cost Becomes an Essential Factor for the Simultaneous Advancement of TOPCon and HJT

The cost of wafers and slurry for N-type cells is yet to be optimized. Raw materials and production account for a higher ratio in the cost structure for HJT cells, and the former is largely occupied by wafers and silver paste. HJT consists of 50% a-Si cost, and the reduction of a-Si cost has become an important direction in lowering the cost of HJT. The cost per watt for TOPCon cells comprises of wafer, silver paste, and depreciation, which account for 62.5%, 15.8%, and 3.7% of the respective cost, and the decrement of future cost primarily comes from wafer thinning, consumption of silver paste, and cost reduction in equipment.

Most of the early production lines for N-type cells had adopted overseas equipment that are higher in cost, and an increasing number of fully localized production lines will be seen alongside the constant maturity of local equipment. A fully localized production line appeared from the tender of four 1GW production lines by Tongwei in 2020, and the debugging statistics for the four production lines are expected to be announced in 2021. The localization trend in the production lines and equipment for HJT cells is becoming evident. Regarding the cost of localized equipment, Shenzhen SC aims to achieve a conversion efficiency of 25% for HJT in 2021, and lower the investment for a single GW-grade equipment to RMB 350 million, which may help with the preliminary establishment of a new structure for the market of N-type cell equipment.

As pointed out by the analysis of EnergyTrend, the current yield rate of PERC cells is at more than 98%, and the lack of maturity for TOPCon and HJT cells on major technologies has become the primary constraint to the exiting development of N-type cells, while the trend of large-sized cells also further extends the lifespan of the PERC technology that possesses a higher degree of maturity. The mass production of N-type cells will remain focused on G1 and M6 in 2021, and the industrialization of N-type cells in the future would have to resolve issues, including the higher cost, efficiency and stability of mass production, and the challenges imposed by the yield rate, under the revolution of M10, G12, or wafers of larger sizes.

 

 

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How Bifacial Solar Panels Can Increase Power Generation?

In the race to develop the most efficient type of solar panels, manufacturers have developed bifacial solar panels. This type of panel has solar cells on both sides which allows the technology to capture more sunlight leading to greater solar cell efficiency compared to traditional solar arrays.

How Do Bifacial Solar Panels Work?
Lets first dig deep into how bifacial solar panels function. The top and bottom solar cells on a bifacial solar array function differently. The top solar cells function like a conventional solar panel array. They face the sun, so they capture incident sun rays directly, absorbing only certain wavelengths.

On the other hand, the bottom solar cells absorb light that is reflected off the ground. Since white or light colors reflect better than dark colors, painting a white or silver surface on the roof or driveway under the panels is encouraged. According to a study by Burns & McDonnell, white surfaces reflect more than 80% of this light while grass only reflects 23%.

How Is Bifacial Solar Panels Installed to Increase Efficiency?
To understand the difference, let’s first uncover how a monofacial solar array is set up. A monofacial solar panel system, or a group of one-sided solar panels, are placed in racks parallel to a surface such as a rooftop. Unlike single-sided panels, bifacial solar panels are installed on a tilt because they produce more energy when they are angled off of the roof or ground at varying degrees.

Below are three benefits of the titled installment of the bifacial solar array.

1. More sunlight to absorb
In these types of titled installations, there is a great amount of reflection. Because sunlight bounces off of all objects reflectively at many different angles, bifacial solar panels are able to capture more of it.

2. Productive on cloudy days
Because of the point above, bifacials can be productive on cloudy days while monofacial solar cells are at a greater disadvantage when there isn’t direct sunlight. Also, bifacials are less susceptible to weather damage because they are more durable. According to the Solar Magazine, because they are more durable than conventional solar panel systems, warranties for bifacial solar panels are typically 5+ years longer (that is, 30+ years versus 20–25 years).

3. Two energy peaks a day
A titled installation can also produce two energy peaks throughout the day based on their placement. For example, half of the bifacials in an array can be tilted toward the east to capture sunrise and morning rays. The second half can then be tilted to the west to soak up afternoon intensity and sunset rays.

Another installation that can achieve this is a vertical installation. During each peak, the reflection of sunlight on the other side of the solar panels will also contribute to energy production.

How Much More Efficient is a Bifacial Solar Array?
When we say efficiency, we are referring to how a solar cell takes the amount of solar energy it received and converts it into electrical energy. Although bifacials produce more electricity than monofacial panels, it definitely isn’t double the efficiency although solar panel manufacturers are working to make that happen in the future. Bifacials can increase energy efficiency by 11% compared to a conventional solar panel system, according to our study. And with a solar tracking system that tilts solar cells continuously toward the sun, the bifacial solar cell efficiency can be as high as 27%.

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How does Floating Solar Power System work?

Introduction

Floating solar farms gained traction in 2018, particularly in countries with high population density and with competing uses for limited available land. These also operate at high efficiency since installing the solar panels on water helps cool the equipment.

The Republic of Korea was among the first to pilot floating photovoltaic (PV) systems. State-owned Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water) began testing a 2.4-kilowatt (kW) model in 2009 on the surface of Juam Dam reservoir in Suncheon, South Jeolla Province. In October 2012, it constructed a 500-kW commercial plant at the Hapcheon Dam in South Gyeongsang Province after it developed a 100-kW demonstration plant in Hapcheon Dam the year before. This was the world’s first commercial floating solar PV installation using the surface of a dam reservoir and the country’s first floating solar farm.

The country currently operates three commercial floating solar power facilities that aim to contribute toward increasing the share of renewables to 20% of the energy mix by 2030 from the current level of 7%.

What is a floating solar photovoltaic system?

It is an eco-friendly method of generating electric power that combines marine technology and renewable energy technology. Solar modules are made to float on the surface of water, such as a dam or a reservoir. Electricity is sent through underwater cables to a transmission tower.

Figure 1: Floating PV Generation Concept

Source: K-Water

What are the benefits of a floating PV system?

  • Promotes land-use efficiency. As the floating PV energy systems are set up on water, the land can be used for other purposes. It requires no construction on land or conversion of forest and farmlands for solar power facilities.
  • Provides high-energy yield. The increased energy generation is due to the natural cooling effect of the water, which reduces rises in temperature of the solar modules.
  • Saves water resources. It reduces the evaporation of water in the reservoir since the floating PV system blocks the sunlight.
  • Uses an eco-friendly system. Natural fish farms thrive under the platform.

Four environmental impact analyses by the Korea Environmental Policy and Evaluation Institute (KEI) from 2011 to 2019, showed that the floating PV facilities caused no harm to the environment, developed a ground for fish spawning, increased aquatic plants, and reduced algae. Also, as of 2018, the floating solar farms in the country has reduced the amount of carbon emissions by 52,414 tons.

What are its features?

A floating solar power plant is composed of the solar module, buoyancy body, and anti-rust material, which includes the vertical frame and horizontal frames, inspection footrest, and module mount assembly.

The solar module should be highly resistant to humidity, lead-free, dust-proof, and protected against the effects of temporary jets of water, and it should have passed the drinking water test. Floating PV Mounting System is applied to solar pv power plant installation on the water. Adopting HDPE material, it should pass the Hunt Water Absorption Test, Anti-Aging Test, Anti-UV Test etc. Moreover, it can bear the pulling force that is much higher than other products. Adopting new module design in floater and main floater, it can realize the array of double row in the same facing or in symmetrical facing, which can increase the efficiency of solar power generation and installation capacity, be easily installed, and save the cost. and its lifetime has more than 25 years.

Figure 2: Floating PV Plant Components

SunEvo Solar Floating System

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Introduction of IEC Standard Testing for Photovoltaic Solar Panels

Solar panel testing and certifications

Like other types of electronics, solar panel modules go through rigorous testing before installation. These tests are critical to determining the quality and performance of panels under particular environmental stresses, as well as confirming they meet mandated safety requirements. In this article, we’ll review the most common testing and certifications for solar panels on the market today.

Why is solar panel testing important?

Solar panel testing is key to assuring both the quality and safety of a module. Photovoltaic Solar Panels have a long lifespan: properly built and installed equipment should generate usable electricity for more than 25 years. Given the longevity of your investment, you want to make sure that any equipment on your roof will perform well and operate safely on your roof.

With solar becoming more and more popular each day, many states, local governments, and utility companies have come out with new mandates that require any grid-tied solar equipment to hold specific certifications. The same holds true for some solar incentive programs; if you’re participating in a state-funded incentive program, don’t be surprised if they have certain testing or certification requirements for your chosen equipment.

Common solar panel testing & certification standards

While reviewing a solar panel spec sheet, you’ll likely notice a bunch of acronyms and random numbers listed under safety and rating certifications – what do these mean? Below are some of the most common solar panel testing standards and certifications to look for when comparing solar panels:

IEC: International Electrotechnical Commission
The IEC is a nonprofit that establishes international assessment standards for a bunch of electronic devices, including photovoltaic (PV) panels. Importantly, the IEC does not test or certify panels themselves – they establish the standards for other testing facilities to adhere to when evaluating solar panel quality.

IEC 61215: Standards for crystalline silicon terrestrial PV modules
IEC 61215 is one of the core testing standards for residential solar panels. If a solar panel module successfully meets IEC 61215 standards, that means it completed a number of stress tests and performed well in regards to quality, performance, and safety.

IEC 61215 standards apply to both monocrystalline and polycrystalline PV modules, which are the most common types of solar panels. The IEC sets different testing standards for other types of solar electric technologies, such as thin-film solar products (IEC 61646).

Solar panels that meet IEC 61215 standards are tested on the following (and more!):

Electrical characteristics (wet leakage current, insulation resistance)
Mechanical load test (wind and snow)
Climate tests (hot spots, UV exposure, humidity-freeze, damp heat, hail impact, outdoor exposure)
IEC 61215 tests also help determine a panel’s performance metrics at standard test conditions (STC), including temperature coefficient, open-circuit voltage, and maximum power output.

What are Standard Test Conditions (STC)?
When solar panels undergo performance testing, they do so at fixed laboratory conditions, known as Standard Test Conditions (STC). Because these conditions are the same across the industry, one panel’s performance metrics (such as power rating, module efficiency, optimal voltage, etc.) can be compared apples-to-apples against other available options.

IEC 61730: Standard for PV module safety
As with any electronic device, solar panels carry the risk of electrical shock if improperly built. That’s where IEC 61730 comes in: this standard address the safety aspects of a solar panel, encompassing both an assessment of the module’s construction and the testing requirements to evaluate electrical, mechanical, thermal, and fire safety. PV modules that successfully pass IEC 61730 tests run a low risk for these types of hazards.

IEC 62716: Ammonia corrosion testing of photovoltaic (PV) modules ammonia corrosion
Do you live on or close by to a farm? If so, keep an eye out for IEC 62716 – this is a test to determine a module’s resistance to ammonia. While most people don’t have to worry about their high concentrations of ammonia exposure with their PV modules, it can be a concern if you install your solar panel system close to farms and livestock. Ammonia corrosion can accelerate degradation in a panel, leading to lower overall electricity production over the lifetime of your system.

IEC 61701: Salt mist corrosion testing
If you’re lucky enough to be installing solar panels on a beach house, it’s worth checking to see your prospective solar panels have successfully passed IEC 61701 tests. With these tests, panels undergo a series of salt sprays in a controlled environment. After the sprays, testers inspect the modules for physical damage – such as corrosion or delamination– and assess their electrical output and overall performance. Panels that successfully pass IEC 61701 tests are definitely a suitable choice for beach-front solar panel systems or systems that will be in close proximity to roads experiencing high levels of salting in the winter.

IEC 60068-2-68: Blowing sand resistance testing
Some solar panels go through IEC 60068-2-68 testing to determine how well they hold up in sandy desert environments. Frequent exposure to abrasive sand can wear a panel down, leading to physical or mechanical defects over time. If you’re installing solar in an area that sees frequent sand or dust storms, try choosing a panel that successfully passed these tests to maximize the durability of your system.

UL: Underwriters Laboratories
Outside of IEC, the other most common acronym you’ll see on a spec sheet related to solar panel testing is UL. This stands for Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a global safety certification company based in the United States. They provide testing services and certifications for many different types of products, including electric appliances, industrial equipment, plastic materials, and more.

UL 1703: Standard for flat-plate PV modules and panels
UL 1703 is an industry-standard attesting to both the safety and performance of solar panel modules. Similarly to IEC 61215 or 61703 tests, panels with this certification go through simulated climatic and aging tests and have been deemed as safe in regards to mechanical loads, fire, and electrical hazards.

You may find that a solar panel spec sheet lists both UL 1703 and IEC 61730 under safety certifications; this is pretty typical for any solar panel sold worldwide. UL 1703 is a mandate for solar panels sold and installed in North America. IEC 61730, on the other hand, is internationally recognized for safety standards and is more widely applicable to the global solar market.

UL 61730: Photovoltaic module safety qualification
UL 61730, a more recent addition to solar panel testing and certifications, combines the testing procedures and standards of UL 1703 with IEC 61730, allowing for complete international approval in regards to a panel module’s safety and performance.

It will become more and more common to see this certification over time–as opposed to both UL and IEC–because it is often the more cost-effective option for manufacturers. In order to complete solar panel testing, manufacturers need to provide multiple solar panel samples. For companies that plan to sell in both North America and international markets, solely completing UL 61730 testing reduces the number of panel samples needed, allowing for reductions in testing time and costs.

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