What is BS EN 62446-1 - Photovoltaic (PV) systems about?
BS EN 62446-1 is the first part of the European standard that defines the information and documentation required to be handed over to a customer following the installation of a grid-connected PV system. It also describes the commissioning tests, inspection criteria, and documentation expected to verify the safe installation and correct operation of the system. It can also be used for periodic retesting.
BS EN 62446-1 defines the different test regimes expected for different solar PV system types to ensure that the test regime applied is appropriate to the scale, type, and complexity of the system in question.
Note: BS EN 62446-1 does not address CPV (concentrating PV) systems, however many of the parts may apply.
Who is BS EN 62446-1 - Photovoltaic (PV) systems for?
BS EN 62446-1 on Photovoltaic systems is useful for:
- Manufacturers and suppliers of grid-connected systems
- Electronics and Electrical engineers
- Testing houses/ service/certification providers for PV systems
- Researchers and scientists
- System designers and installers of grid-connected PV systems.
Why should you use BS EN 62446-1 - Photovoltaic (PV) systems?
A photovoltaic system, also a PV system or solar power system, is an electric power system designed to supply usable solar power using photovoltaics.
BS EN 62446 specifies system documentation requirements, detailing what information requires to be included within the documentation provided to the customer after the installation of a grid-connected PV system. The verification procedure outlines what information will be expected following the installation.
BS EN 62446 facilitates the provision of effective documentation to customers for grid-connected solar PV systems and specifies the expected commissioning tests and inspection criteria, which will also aid in in-depth verification.
Overall, BS EN 62446-1 guides users to use a structured methodology and a systems approach of documentation testing and inspection to manufacture superior quality Grid-connected PV systems, thereby accelerating the uptake of new energy-saving technologies. Utilizing these tools can lead to greater energy efficiency and superior-quality products.