Classification Systems

This part of IEC 61730 specifies and describes the fundamental construction requirements for photovoltaic (PV) modules in order to provide safe electrical and mechanical operation. Specific topics are provided to assess the prevention of electrical shock, fire hazards, and personal injury due to mechanical and environmental stresses. This part of IEC 61730 pertains to the particular requirements of construction. IEC 61730‑2 defines the requirements for testing.

This International Standard series lays down IEC requirements of terrestrial photovoltaic modules suitable for long-term operation in open-air climates. This standard is intended to apply to all terrestrial flat plate module materials such as crystalline silicon module types as well as thin-film modules.

PV modules covered by this standard are limited to a maximum DC system voltage of 1 500 V.

This International Standard defines the basic requirements for various applications of PV modules, but it cannot be considered to encompass all national or regional codes. Specific requirements, e.g. for building, marine and vehicle applications, are not covered.

This International Standard does not address specific requirements for products that combine a PV module with power conversion equipment, monitoring or control electronics, such as integrated inverters, converters or output disabling functions.

While parts of this standard may be applicable to flat plate PV modules with internally generated low level concentration below 3 times, it was not written specifically to address these concerns.

This International Standard is designed to coordinate with the test sequences in the IEC 61215 series, so that a single set of samples may be used to perform both the safety and qualification of a photovoltaic module design.

The object of this International Standard is to define the requirements for the construction of photovoltaic modules with respect to safety. These requirements are intended to minimize the misapplication and misuse of PV modules or the failure of their components which could result in fire, electric shock and personal injury.

Additional construction requirements outlined in relevant ISO standards, or the national or local codes which govern the installation and use of these PV modules in their intended locations, should be considered in addition to the requirements contained within this standard.