How do we assure that solar panel installations are done properly, using quality panels and the best practices that have been developed over decades for safety and durability? The International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Renewable Energy Applications (IECRE) leverages the experience of the industry and incorporates the practices that experts have identified as essential. While the IEC standards specify solar panel design tests, the IECRE provides certification for consistent manufacturing quality. Investors, homeowners and businesses can already purchase IECRE certified solar panels. Combining quality sampling and monitoring in the the panel manufacturing line with comprehensive quality assurance for the handling, installation, assessment and maintenance can help to prevent hot spots and other risks such as improper wiring.
Cost effectiveness and the fast pace of innovation are considered as well. Large solar projects typically have multiple stakeholders, including manufacturers, engineers, investors and insurers. Often each of these parties has a different protocol for quality assurance, which can create testing redundancies that add costs without providing meaningful benefits. Standardization not only streamlines the due diligence process, saving time and expense, but also improves practices across the industry by leveraging the extensive international experience available today. The IECRE also implements continual improvement processes that enhance learning and allow manufacturers to change technologies and adapt manufacturing techniques over time without sacrificing quality.
“Streamlining Due Diligence with the IECRE” Solar Professional Magazine 10.5, September/October. Jordan, Katherine A., George Kelly, and Sarah R. Kurtz. 2017.
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