Kiwa PVEL Debuts 2026 Scorecard

Kiwa PVEL, an independent lab for solar photovoltaic (PV) module testing, released its 12th annual PV Module Reliability Scorecard on May 27, 2026. The report, based on its Product Qualification Program (PQP), evaluates solar modules under various environmental and mechanical conditions. Key highlights include the addition of Ultraviolet Induced Degradation (UVID) as a new Top Performer category, the naming of 43 manufacturers as 'Top Performers' (though no single model achieved this across all tests), and a notable increase in overall failure rates, particularly delamination and mechanical breakage. Despite some reductions in power loss and increased energy yields, the rise in failures underscores the importance of balancing innovation and cost-cutting with consistent quality and robust design for long-term field reliability. Tristan Erion-Lorico>>> and Kevin Gibson>>> of Kiwa PVEL emphasized the report's role in helping stakeholders assess risk and make informed investment decisions.