Solar Lighting and Photovoltaic Systems

Increasing popularity of solar and PV lighting

The growing availability of energy-efficient, mid-sized photovoltaic (PV) lighting options, combined with rising consumer interest, is driving a need for new benchmarks in safety, cost savings and ease of installation worldwide. As a vital component of rural, off-the-grid development, and as a way for urban utility grids to preserve capacity, PV and solar lighting systems have increased expectations for versatility, reliability and durability.

PV-powered luminaire systems are ideal for illuminating areas that lack a utility connection or reducing electrical use and cost in areas that have a connection. As a result, PV solutions hold great interest for manufacturers, property owners, utilities, municipalities and other stakeholders.

Common applications in residential, public spaces and infrastructure include:

• Pathway stake lights
• Driveway or garden post lights
• Exterior building wall-mounted area lighting
• Municipal park post lights
• Parking and area lighting
• Streetlights

PV safety standards and regulations

We have capabilities and competencies for IEC, EN and regional/national standards and in the IECEE CB Scheme related to PV.in the IECEE CB Scheme related to PV.

In North America, ANSI/CAN/UL 8801, the Standard for Photovoltaic (PV) Luminaire Systems, was developed to provide the requirements for system-level certification and is based on the PV modules’ compliance with a subset of the requirements of IEC/UL 61730. The Standard addresses requirements for connecting a supplemental utility power source, with the battery system, controls and luminaires evaluated as integrated components at the system level.

PV performance and energy efficiency testing

As LEDs and solar panels become more affordable, manufacturers face increasing pressure to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. That’s why performance testing and energy efficiency claims are increasingly important, especially as demand rises for measurable sustainability goals.

UL Solutions is accredited to test lighting products under the following energy efficiency programs:

• California Energy Commission (CEC)
• The DesignLights Consortium^®
• LED Lighting Facts^®
• Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)
• Department of Energy (DOE)
• Other global and domestic energy efficiency programs

Additionally, UL Marketing Claim Verification helps PV product manufacturers demonstrate that their marketing and advertising claims are accurate, truthful and credible.