RE:NRWhat I infer from the update is that certification is still on track, but the results likely won't be available in August. With the June 22nd n/r, it mentioned how one of the more strenuous tests takes 1000 hours (42 days) and that testing started on May 23rd. It sounds like that time estimate was a bit too optimistic, given they are trying to certify non-glass panels for the first time and they want to make sure they get it right. Any slight modification requires another round of testing.
Even with no problems with the testing, there are two good reasons for minor delays: First, from what I read, some of these tests can actually take 2000 hours (nearly 90 days), although the standard is usually 45 days. Second, they may choose repeating some of the testing for greater confirmation of the results, given they are using new techniques to test for the non-glass product.
I thought some might be interested in having more information on the nature of these certification tests:
IEC 61215 Modified testing from Crystalline silicon PV modules to Q's non-glass model. It provides requirements for design qualifications for long-term use in general open-air climates. It includes Thermal Cycling, Humidity Freeze and Damp Heat tests.
IEC 61730 PV panel safety qualification – It sets the testing requirements for PV panels in order to provide safe electrical and mechanical operation during their expected lifetime. They test materials, internal wiring, connections and bonding and grounding.
UL 1703 Sets the standard for PV Panels. It requires test conditions that simulate a generation’s worth of weather within 45-90 days. It includes multiple thermal cycles (-40C to +90C). It also verifies safety under various humidity levels.
The purpose of this certification is to create credible warranties. Manufacturers typically offer warranties based on 1% per year degradation. For example, in the case of a 20 year warranty, the manufacturer will replace a panel whose power output drops below the 80% of the initial power.
Historically, glass soler panel failures in the field are said to be 45% caused by corrosion and 41% caused by cell or interconnect breaks. I can see why this SUD testing is taking time in getting correct results, given the claim that Q's product will have less corrosion and will be less susceptible to interconnect breaks, yet producing more power than the traditional tier one glass panel.
A good summary (yet a bit outdated) of this certification process is set out in a July 2010 white paper for Thermotron, a company out of Michigan, USA which I found to be a good read:
https://www.thermotron.com/sites/default/files/pdf/Solar-White-Paper2.pdf