PV Evolution Labs (PVEL) announced it has partnered with GTM Research to introduce the PV Module Reliability Scorecard, a first-of -its-kind benchmarking program to measure and compare PV module reliability across multiple manufacturers. This study is taking place at PVEL's state-of-the-art PV testing facility in Berkeley, Calif., where manufacturers from around the world undergo a comprehensive and rigorous side-by-side testing program. Results will be analyzed by PVEL and GTM Research to produce a competitive scorecard that will enable manufacturers to build and maintain their bankability, and enable banks, developers and EPC firms to enhance their supplier qualification and product due diligence programs through competitive reliability metrics.
“The PV Module Reliability Scorecard offers developers a sophisticated, technology-neutral supplier qualification solution that places module products on an even playing field for the most accurate comparison," said Jenya Meydbray co-founder and CEO of PVEL. "Solar PV manufacturers benefit from knowing how they measure up against the competition in order to improve their product designs and manufacturing processes. Because the solar PV technology landscape is extremely dynamic and module warranties are lengthy, the industry is striving to obtain intelligence that will inform not only manufacturing improvements, but purchasing decisions as well.”
Module manufacturers participating in the PV Reliability Scorecard program will submit products to PVEL for testing according to the PVEL Reliability Demonstration Test developed in partnership with NREL and Sandia National Labs. PV modules are evaluated for their response to real-world stresses such as temperature swings, humidity, freezing temperatures, UV radiation, system level voltage stresses, and mechanical fatigue.
“As balance sheets continue to be strained, PV module buyers are increasingly buying a product rather than a 25 year relationship with a supplier,” said Shayle Kann, VP of research at GTM Research. “By partnering with PVEL we are able to push the boundaries of existing IEC requirements, as the PV Module Reliability Scorecard will identify data that goes beyond current standards, giving all industry players unprecedented insight.”
Full details of the PV Reliability Scorecard program will be unveiled at Solar Power International, September 10-13 in Orlando, Fla., where interested solar PV manufacturers can visit Greentech Media’s booth #2762 to reserve space in the Scorecard program. Interested manufacturers can also visit www.pvel.com/project-development/supplier-qualification or contact [email protected] for more information on joining the program.
