Solar PV IV Curve and EL Imaging Diagnostic Checklist
This solar PV IV curve and electroluminescence (EL) imaging diagnostic checklist ensures compliance with IEC 60904-1 (Photovoltaic Devices - Measurement), IEC 62446-3 (Thermographic and Electroluminescence Methods), ISO 9060 pyranometer standards, and NFPA 70E electrical safety requirements. Designed for solar diagnostic specialists and O&M teams to systematically conduct string-level IV curve tracing and module-level EL imaging to identify degradation, cell cracks, bypass diode failures, and so
- Industry: Renewable Energy
- Frequency: Annually
- Estimated Time: Variable by system size
- Role: Solar Diagnostic Specialist / O&M Engineer
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: IEC 60904-1 Photovoltaic Device Measurement, IEC 62446-3 Thermographic and EL Testing Methods, IEC 62446-2 PV System Maintenance Requirements, ISO 9060 Pyranometer Classification, NFPA 70E Electrical Safety in the Workplace
Equipment Setup and Calibration
Diagnostic equipment verification.
- IV curve tracer calibrated with traceable reference cell?
- Pyranometer calibrated (ISO 9060 Class A or B)?
- Module temperature sensor calibrated?
- EL camera sensor sensitivity verified?
- Arc-rated PPE and NFPA 70E requirements followed for IV testing?
IV Curve Tracing
String-level IV curve measurement.
- Irradiance above minimum threshold (>600 W/m² per IEC 62446-3)?
- Measurements corrected to STC using measured temperature?
- String Pmax within 5% of expected STC value?
- Fill Factor (FF) within expected range (>0.70)?
- String comparison completed; underperforming strings flagged?
EL Imaging
Electroluminescence imaging for cell defects.
- EL imaging conducted in low-light or dark conditions?
- Modules forward-biased at rated current during EL imaging?
- Cell crack analysis completed per IEC 62446-3 classification?
- Inactive cells or strings identified?
- All EL images archived with GPS coordinates?
Defect Classification
Prioritized defect classification and action.
- All defects classified by severity (Cat 0-4)?
- Bypass diode failures identified?
- PID (Potential Induced Degradation) assessed?
- Snail trail discoloration documented?
- Repair/replacement list generated with priority?
Performance Impact Assessment
Defect impact on energy production.
- Energy loss from identified defects quantified?
- Defects triggering module manufacturer warranty claim identified?
- Repair ROI analysis completed for prioritization?
- Pre/post repair performance comparison planned?
- Performance Impact Notes
Diagnostic Report
Diagnostic findings report and recommendations.
- Comprehensive diagnostic report prepared?
- All IV curves and EL images included in report?
- Report delivered to asset owner/manager?
- Module warranty claims initiated for warranted defects?
- Diagnostic Notes and Recommendations
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Why Use This Solar PV IV Curve and EL Imaging Diagnostic Checklist?
This solar pv iv curve and el imaging diagnostic checklist helps renewable energy teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for solar diagnostic specialist / o&m engineer professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: annually.
Ensures compliance with IEC 60904-1 Photovoltaic Device Measurement, IEC 62446-3 Thermographic and EL Testing Methods, IEC 62446-2 PV System Maintenance Requirements, ISO 9060 Pyranometer Classification, NFPA 70E Electrical Safety in the Workplace. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Solar PV IV Curve and EL Imaging Diagnostic Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Equipment Setup and Calibration, IV Curve Tracing, EL Imaging, Defect Classification, Performance Impact Assessment, Diagnostic Report. It is designed for renewable energy operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed annually. Each completion takes approximately Variable by system size.
Who should use this Solar PV IV Curve and EL Imaging Diagnostic Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Solar Diagnostic Specialist / O&M Engineer professionals in the renewable energy industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.