Classification of Solar Panels
The main component of a solar power plant is the solar panel, or in technical terms, a photovoltaic module. Since these products are relatively new to the Ukrainian market, new terminology has emerged alongside them. In this article, we will briefly analyze what a Class A panel is.
On the Internet, you will find a lot of information in different languages about the classification of solar panels based on the quality of their solar cells. However, the quality of the cells in solar panels does not necessarily determine the quality of the panels themselves. When discussing the quality of solar cells, no one ever refers to any standards or regulations. This is because no such universally accepted standards exist.
Solar panel manufacturers have long implemented their own internal quality control systems for incoming solar cells, with each manufacturer following its own criteria. What one factory considers "Class A cells" may be classified as "Class B cells" by another.
“There is no universally accepted standard for classifying solar panels by quality into Classes A, B, C, or D among manufacturers.”
At this point, you might object: “Nonsense! I've seen the Class A label on solar panels with my own eyes.” And that is true. However, such labeling is usually preceded by the phrase “Application Class,” which translates as “Application Class.” The meaning of this classification can be found in an official document issued by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), which develops international standards.
One such document is IEC 61730 – Photovoltaic (PV) module safety qualification. The Ukrainian equivalent of this standard is DSTU EN IEC 61730-1:2018. This standard was later updated and published as the European Standard EN 61730. According to these documents, application classes are determined by the following criteria:
Application Classes of Solar Panels
Application Class A: For modules operating at DC voltages above 50 V (or 120 V) or with power exceeding 240 W, installed in locations where unauthorized persons may come into contact with them. This class has the most rigorous testing requirements.
Application Class B: For modules operating at DC voltages above 50 V or power above 240 W, but installed in restricted-access locations. The testing requirements are slightly less stringent than those for Class A, but the differences are minimal.
Application Class C: For modules operating at a DC voltage of less than 50 V (or 120 V) and with power below 240 W. These modules undergo significantly reduced testing.
“The application class of solar panels is determined by their operating conditions and the DC voltage.”
As you can see in the table, the last column also includes Safety Classes. These are defined in IEC 61140 – Protection against electric shock – Common aspects for installations and equipment. The Ukrainian equivalent of this standard is DSTU EN 61140:2019. According to this standard, most solar panels in Ukraine will be labeled "Safety Class II".
What Does "Class A Solar Panel" Actually Mean?
Now that we understand the classification system, we can see that when a company offers “Class A solar panels,” they are referring to the safety classification of the panel’s application—not its quality.
If a panel has cracked cells, delaminated insulation film, or soldering defects in its conductor busbars that affect performance, it does not belong to any of the classes. Such a panel simply fails the safety test.
Using the term “Class A solar panels” as a marketing strategy to communicate with customers is misleading but not necessarily harmful. However, including the phrase "Class A solar panels" in tender documentation is essentially meaningless.
To ensure a reliable solar power system, it is essential to purchase high-quality equipment from reputable and proven suppliers. DCAC managers will guide you in selecting reliable solar panels and choosing top-quality equipment. They can also advise you on the feasibility of installing a solar system for your home or business and provide a free technical consultation.
