In many residential and commercial PV installations, the solar panels are laid on the roof, without much consideration for the gap between the panel and the roof. This often results in very little gap and poor air circulation behind the module; which causes operation of solar panels at elevated temperatures for extended durations.

The problem is particularly severe in hot climates and can cause accelerated degradation/safety issues in solar panels. NCPRE had significantly contributed to the development of “IEC TS 63126:2020 Guidelines for qualifying PV modules, components and materials for operation at high temperatures”, which was published in 2020. As of now, the qualification of solar panels with respect to IEC 63126 is optional in India. However, in the near future, the mandatory standards IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 are being revised in such a way that if installers do not maintain a minimum necessary gap between the modules and the roof (as given in IEC 63126), this would result in violation of the IEC standards.

This is particularly important for India where such installations are routinely found. In this year (2024), NCPRE shall undertake an awareness campaign of the installers in India to ensure that they are well-prepared for these upcoming changes in the standard and result in safer installations in the hot climates in India.