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Solar Lighting and Photovoltaic Systems

Learn more about testing and certification options for photovoltaic lighting and ANSI/CAN/UL 8801, the Standard for Photovoltaic Luminaire Systems.

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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

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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.

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UL Marketing Claim Verification for Lighting

Learn more about ways to differentiate your lighting products in a crowded market with UL Verify.

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Sustainability Services for Lighting

Learn how sustainability can help your lighting business stay competitive in today’s global marketplace and meet ESG goals.

Recent news and resources

UL 8801 – the Standard for Photovoltaic (PV) Luminaire Systems

Join UL Solutions principal engineer Michael Shulman for a recap of changes to PV lighting standards and regulations.

Expanded Guidance for Photovoltaic (PV) Luminaire Systems

Learn more about the recent revisions and scope expansions for UL 8801, the Standard for Photovoltaic (PV) Luminaire Systems.

Lighting Safety Testing and Certification

Bring your innovative lighting products to market with UL Solutions’ expert safety testing and certification for lamps, fixtures, components and systems.

Lighting Performance Testing

Our core services – performance testing, energy efficiency testing and claims verification – have flexible options to meet your requirements.

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Market Access for Lighting

Discover how UL Solutions supports global market access for lighting products with compliance, certification and regulatory expertise.

Connected Lighting Solutions

UL Solutions provides comprehensive connected lighting services and testing for cybersecurity, interoperability, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), DALI-2 for smart lighting systems and more.

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Infrastructure Lighting