Within the framework of a BMZ-funded project to promote quality assurance in the photovoltaic-sector, the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and the Directorate for Standards, Metrology and Quality (STAMEQ) collaborated to organize a Calidena workshop, which took place at the Intercontinental Hotel in Hanoi on 9-10 April. This two-day event served as a platform for various stakeholders from both the private sector and quality infrastructure (QI) institutions to come together and brainstorm solutions to address critical quality and safety issues along the photovoltaic (PV) value chain.
Despite the challenges facing the PV market, such as a slowdown due to a lack of supporting policies paired with financial incentives, the workshop underscored the enduring interest and commitment to developing the PV sector. Participants engaged in insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at deepening their understanding of QI and its crucial role in ensuring the sustainability and reliability of PV systems.
Most of the PV components manufactured in Viet Nam are designated for export. Up to now, it has been necessary to outsource quality assurance to providers in other countries, which often escalates production costs and hampers competitiveness. Dr Ha Minh Hiep, Director of STAMEQ, emphasized the importance of developing tailored, locally available services to enhance the competitiveness of Vietnamese PV manufacturers.
Throughout the workshop, participants identified and discussed various issues spanning the entire PV value chain. For instance, in the context of planning and design, participants indicated that oftentimes there was an inappropriate plant design or none at all. This is because the only criterion for installing a ground-mounted PV installation is that it runs. However, ensuring the suitability of the plant design is important as it influences the system’s energy yield, performance, and long-term reliability. While there are engineering, procurement, and construction companies that generally have good practices, no standardized practice or regulation is in place.
Another identified issue was related to components and circularity: there is insufficient and inconsistent module quality, which is due to the lack of adoption of relevant component standards and the absence of PV module testing services in Viet Nam. This insufficient quality may lead to issues such as reduced energy yield, increased maintenance costs, and a shortened lifespan of the system.
Building on many identified issues like these, the second day of the workshop focused on developing a comprehensive action plan. It outlines specific measures and activities, responsible parties, and timelines to address the identified challenges effectively. One example is the development of guidelines and selection criteria for inverters. Careful selection of the inverter improves the performance, compatibility, and reliability of the PV system.
By fostering collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders, the workshop not only raised awareness about the critical role of QI in PV market development but also underscored its broader implications for social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Moving forward, the implementation of the action plan holds the promise of bringing about positive changes within the PV industry in Viet Nam. Additionally, it will have a significant impact on the upcoming follow-up project between PTB and STAMEQ which is currently in the preparation phase.
The workshop was well attended, with over 90 participants in total. Among the attendees were representatives from prominent organizations and institutions like Vietnam Electricity, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, the Vietnam Metrology Institute, the Vietnam Standards and Quality Institute, Quality Assurance and Testing Centers 1 to 4, the Vietnam Certification Centre (QUACERT), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, TUV NORD Vietnam, and Kiwa/PI Berlin, as well as companies like Solartek, DAT Solar, SolarBk, and TechEdge.
Image © PTB
