Kiwa, a global leader in Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) services, has released a new white paper aimed at enhancing the quality of photovoltaic (PV) modules. The paper, developed in collaboration with Kiwa PVEL and Kiwa PI Berlin, introduces a comprehensive set of requirements to improve the reliability and performance of solar installations worldwide.
Titled “Raising the Bar: Defining acceptable levels of quality for PV modules,” the white paper addresses critical industry challenges by establishing benchmarks for evaluating solar module quality. It focuses on extended reliability Product Qualification Program (PQP) testing, Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI), Batch Testing, and Ongoing Reliability Monitoring (ORM). These measures aim to ensure that solar modules meet stringent standards for durability and long-term performance.
“This white paper highlights key aspects for module procurement and displays our commitment in pushing the industry to higher levels of quality,” said Terry Jester, Managing Director for North America at Kiwa PI Berlin. “We believe our updated guidance will be instrumental in advancing the solar industry and safeguarding renewable energy investments worldwide.”
The white paper provides clear guidance on PQP result acceptance, including defined pass/fail thresholds. It outlines the scope, sample size, and Acceptable Quality Level (AQL) requirements for Pre-Shipment Inspection tests. The paper also includes recommendations for Batch Testing and Ongoing Reliability Monitoring, specifying test protocols, frequency, and expected results.
“We have used the past years of PQP data to create clear direction for the industry on what test results should be considered acceptable,” commented Tristan Erion-Lorico, VP of Sales and Marketing at Kiwa PVEL. “This is the first time Kiwa PVEL has publicly provided this guidance, which will surely lead to more reliable PV module designs and material selection.”
The white paper is available for download at kiwa.com/raising-the-bar.
About Kiwa PVEL
Kiwa PVEL is a leading reliability and performance testing laboratory for solar project developers, financiers, and asset owners worldwide. As part of the larger Kiwa Group, Kiwa PVEL provides integrated services for the solar supply chain, offering technical solutions to mitigate risk, optimize financing, and improve solar and energy storage system performance throughout the project lifecycle.
Kiwa PVEL’s Product Qualification Program (PQP) has been globally recognized for over a decade, replacing assumptions about PV module performance with quantifiable metrics. Kiwa PVEL’s related data and consulting services provide essential procurement intelligence to a network of downstream solar buyers.
About Kiwa PI Berlin
Kiwa PI Berlin delivers expert technical diligence, procurement, and quality assurance services for solar installers, integrators, project developers, utilities, and investors. They enable their clients to manage technical risk associated with investing in or procuring PV equipment. Kiwa PI Berlin leverages direct relationships with PV module, inverter, and battery manufacturers, applying their expertise to qualified manufacturers and independently verifying quality, reliability, and performance.
