Updated international standards for PV modules are being phased in, with a change to requirements for the approved PV modules list
If you manufacture PV modules, find out how the update affects your applications
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) publishes international standards for PV modules, which are often referenced in standards published by Standards Australia. In 2023, the IEC released an update to one of the main series of product standards for PV modules: IEC 61730.
To align with the updated IEC 61730 standard, we are changing the requirements for the approved PV modules list.
- Before 1 May 2026, applications to join our approved PV modules list can be certified to either IEC 61730:2016 or IEC 61730:2023.
From 1 May 2026, new applications for products to feature on the CEC’s approved PV module list must be certified to IEC 61730:2023.
Any approved PV modules currently on the CEC’s list that have been tested to IEC 61730:2016 will remain on the list until their expiry date.
There is no change for installers and retailers. This standards change is being phased in: the expiry dates for all listed PV modules will remain the same.
About the updated IEC 61730 standard
The updated international PV module standard, IEC 61730:2023 can be found here and here. It brings in several changes including:
- additional requirements for junction boxes, connectors, frontsheets, and backsheets used in PV modules
- significantly changed requirements for relied upon insulation materials
- changes to temperature testing, requirements, and related definitions
- additional requirements for the verification of clearance values
- insulation coordination requirements and testing for all applicable PV module types
- expansion of requirements and testing for the performance and safety of bifacial modules
- increased minimum mechanical requirements and associated testing
- defining the term and requirements for when using representative samples for very large modules
- increased marking and documentation requirements for all products, especially bifacial and flexible modules.
Manufacturers of approved PV modules have been proactively certifying their products to the updated standards. More than 80 per cent of PV modules currently on the list are certified to IEC 61730:2023.
Guidance for manufacturers:
Ensure PV modules in applications are certified to IEC 61730:2023 from 1 May 2026
If you are looking to apply to have new PV modules added to our Approved Products Lists, know the standards you need to be certified to. Currently, applications to join our approved PV modules list can be certified to either IEC 61730:2016 or IEC 61730:2023. From 1 May 2026, new applications for products to feature on the CEC’s approved PV module list must be tested and certified to IEC 61730:2023.
If you have an approved PV module on our list, you do not need to take any action until you approach your product’s expiry date. Any approved PV modules that have been tested to IEC 61730:2016 will remain on the list until their expiry date.
Guidance for installers and retailers
Ensure you know PV module expiry dates and check for suspensions and de-listings
There is no change for installers and retailers regarding approved PV modules. This standards change is being phased in: the expiry dates for all listed PV modules will remain the same.
As always, those buying or installing approved PV modules should check the expiry dates on the Approved Products Lists and monitor suspensions and de-listings to ensure their products remain eligible for small-scale technology certificates (STCs).
You should ensure you comply with all other relevant requirements including installation standards and network requirements.
You can check which version of IEC 61730 your modules are certified to by looking at the details on the product label. Those certified to the 2023 editions are marked with "IEC 61730-1:2023" and "IEC 61730-2:2023", or "IEC 61730-1/2:2023, or similar. More than 80 per cent of PV modules currently on the list are certified to IEC 61730:2023.
We are here for you
We are committed to supporting you throughout this transition process as best as we can. For any questions regarding the transition process please contact the CEC Products Team at products@cleanenergycouncil.org.au.
