PV Evolution Labs Strengthens Solar Module Quality Standards With New Potential Induced Degradation (PID) Certification Program

North America’s premier independent solar module test lab, PV Evolution Labs (PVEL), has launched a new certification program that gives solar module manufacturers and project developers a deeper understanding of how products hold up against degradation from system voltages, a common cause of reduced performance and module failure. PVEL developed PID Certification in its ongoing effort to raise standards for solar PV quality and reliability industry-wide. Canadian Solar (NASDAQ: CSIQ) became the first company to pass the highly stringent certification process.

“This rigorous program demonstrates resiliency amidst what we now know is a common field condition affecting a system's energy yield,” said Jenya Meydbray, co-founder and CEO of PVEL. “Companies concerned about the level of product quality in the market are increasingly engaging in third-party evaluations that not only go beyond most in-house testing capabilities, but also exceed IEC requirements to ensure effective operation of PV modules.”

“Given the demanding real-world situations in which customers use our products, we continually work to push the boundaries so that our PV modules can deliver consistent performance. We are pleased to become the first company to pass PVEL’s stringent PID certification, again demonstrating our industry and technical leadership,” said Shawn Qu, Canadian Solar’s Chairman and CEO.

PVEL's PID Certification simulates the voltage-related stresses that an installed module endures by subjecting modules to 600 hours of damp heat conditioning under maximum system voltage levels. By evaluating both positive and negative grounding configurations, manufacturers and power plant owners can gain confidence that the modules are being deployed in appropriate system configurations. Contrary to typical certification programs, periodic retesting is required to maintain the PVEL PID certification to ensure that evolution in the raw material supply or manufacturing does not impact module stability.

About PVEL

Headquartered in Berkeley, CA, PV Evolution Labs ( www.PVEL.com) was founded on the principle that understanding solar module performance and aging behavior through rigorous testing is fundamental to reducing risk in solar investments. For solar technology and project development, PVEL provides solar product intelligence beyond the advanced test data it delivers.

About Canadian Solar

Canadian Solar Inc. is one of the world's largest solar companies. As a leading vertically integrated provider of ingots, wafers, solar cells, solar modules and other solar applications, Canadian Solar designs, manufactures and delivers solar products and solar system solutions for on-grid and off-grid use to customers worldwide. With operations in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia, Canadian Solar provides premium quality, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solar solutions to support global, sustainable development. For more information, visit www.canadiansolar.com.

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