CAN/CSA-C61215-01 (R2006)

This National Standard of Canada is equivalent to International Standard CEI/IEC 1215:1993 (first edition, 1993-04) 1 Scope and object This International Standard lays down requirements for the design qualification and type approval of terrestrial photovoltaic modules suitable for long-term operation in general open-air climates, as defined in IEC 721-2-1. It applies only to crystalline silicon types. Standards for thin-film modules and other environments, such as marine or equator conditions, are under consideration. This standard does not apply to modules used with concentrators. The object of this test sequence is to determine the electrical and thermal characteristics of the module and to show, as far as possible within reasonable constraints of cost and time, that the module is capable of withstanding prolonged exposure in climates described in the scope. The actual lifetime expectancy of modules so qualified will depend on their design, their environment and the conditions under which they are operated.