pv magazine Test
Raising the bar for solar module quality
The pv magazine Test is a benchmark program that evaluates solar modules through rigorous indoor and outdoor testing. In partnership with CEA and Gsolar, it delivers insights into performance, durability, and long-term value—helping manufacturers and stakeholders make informed decisions.
Background
In 2017, pv magazine group launched pv magazine Test with partners Clean Energy Associates (CEA) and Gsolar. Hoymiles later joined as a fellow sponsor, providing its microinverter technology to the outdoor test array.
The program relaunched in 2025 with pv magazine group and CEA alongside new partners Intertek and the Yangtze Institute for Solar Technology (YIST), and a new outdoor location at YIST’s testing site in Yinchuan, China. Microinverters are still provided by Hoymiles.
It is the first testing program of its kind to offer comprehensive, independent module testing with an expert third-party witness present at all stages of the testing. The program covers a wide range of indoor and outdoor tests at leading testing facilities in China (and optionally the Middle East). Test results of the outdoor performance tests in China and the Middle East are published monthly by pv magazine.
pv magazine Test involves a comprehensive series of procedures addressing the most important issues in module quality and performance, including the following:
- Visual inspection
- EL image inspection
- Low irradiance and temperature behavior
- PID (Potential Induced Degradation) resistance
- UVID (Ultraviolet Induced Degradation) resistance (Optional)
- Outdoor performance test
The added value of pv magazine Test:
- An excellent way to demonstrate your reliability to investors using the high global visibility of the pv magazine trade media platform (print & online)
- Module characterization and tests performed at Intertek’s accredited 1st class laboratory in China
- Expert third-party design and witnessing of all testing procedures by Clean Energy Associates, a well-known advisory firm with hundreds of GWs of project track record and hundreds of PV module manufacturers audited.
Working alongside industry experts from CEA, Intertek and YIST, pv magazine has developed a comprehensive module testing program to provide the wide range of data required by PV investors, EPCs, developers and plant operators. The testing procedures are explained in the chart below:
How does the test work?
One key aspect is the random sampling method, which ensures the modules being tested represent a cross-section of what is actually rolling off a manufacturer’s production line. More detailed descriptions of the testing procedures, provided by CEA’s vice President of ESG and New Services, George Touloupas, are available in the following pv magazine publications:
- March 2025 issue of pv magazine, pv magazine test 2.0
- September 2017 issue of pv magazine, Method for the modules
- December 2017 issue of pv magazine, Building the benchmark
Have a look at the current test results here:
How can you benefit from the pv magazine Test?
For module manufacturers, the pv magazine Test presents an ideal marketing opportunity to demonstrate the quality and reliability of your modules. It also lets you shine a light on cutting-edge new products, for example, back contact or heterojunction.
Boost your reputation among investors by participating in the pv magazine Test!
Benefit from pv magazine’s international reach:
- Results are published on the leading online sites in English, German, Chinese & Spanish
- Optional: Receive customized print-outs to give directly to your customers.
