IEC 61427-1-2013 PDF

Full title and description

Secondary cells and batteries for renewable energy storage — General requirements and methods of test — Part 1: Photovoltaic off‑grid application. This International Standard specifies general requirements and typical test methods for secondary cells and batteries used in photovoltaic (PV) off‑grid energy systems.

Abstract

This part of IEC 61427 provides verification methods and performance requirements intended for batteries in PV off‑grid applications. It is chemistry‑neutral (applicable to lead‑acid, nickel‑based and other secondary batteries) and covers tests for capacity, cycling/endurance, self‑discharge, temperature performance and conditions of use typical for PV systems. It does not specify PV system sizing, charge algorithm design or power conversion equipment.

General information

• Status: International Standard (published / current)
• Publication date: 23 April 2013
• Publisher: International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
• ICS / categories: 27.160, 29.220.20
• Edition / version: Edition 1.0 (2013)
• Number of pages: 37.

Scope

Specifies requirements and test methods for secondary cells and batteries used in photovoltaic off‑grid (network‑independent) applications. The document is applicable to all types of secondary batteries and covers operating conditions typical for PV systems (autonomy, temperature ranges, states of charge, vented/valve‑regulated/sealed types). It excludes detailed guidance on battery sizing, PV system design or power conversion equipment. Part 2 of the IEC 61427 series addresses on‑grid applications and related test methods.

Key topics and requirements

• Definitions and general requirements for secondary cells and batteries intended for PV off‑grid use.
• Standard test methods for capacity, cycle life (deep and shallow cycling), endurance and float/standby performance.
• Requirements and tests for self‑discharge, temperature effects, charge/discharge efficiency and state‑of‑charge behaviour.
• Consideration of different battery types and delivery/initial states (flooded, VRLA, dry‑charged, discharged etc.).
• Guidance on typical PV operating conditions (autonomy expectations, daily/seasonal cycling and environmental stresses).
• Notes on safety and on the scope limits (excludes PV system sizing and power‑conversion interface tests).

Typical use and users

Used by battery and cell manufacturers for product development and specifications, test laboratories for type and performance testing, PV system designers and integrators to assess battery suitability, certification bodies and regulatory authorities, and researchers working on PV energy storage performance and reliability.

Related standards

Closely related: IEC 61427‑2 (on‑grid applications and associated test methods, including later amendments), national/adopted versions such as EN 61427‑1 and CAN/CSA C61427‑1 (Canadian adoption with deviations). Other related battery standards include IEC standards for stationary batteries and industry specific test methods (e.g., IEC 60896 series for stationary lead‑acid batteries, IEC safety and transport standards as applicable).

Keywords

secondary cells; batteries; energy storage; photovoltaic; PV off‑grid; test methods; capacity; cycle life; VRLA; flooded; autonomy; self‑discharge.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: IEC 61427‑1:2013 is the first part of the IEC 61427 series that sets out general requirements and test methods for secondary cells and batteries used in photovoltaic off‑grid (stand‑alone) applications.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers applicable battery types and standardised test procedures for assessing capacity, cycle life, endurance, self‑discharge, temperature behaviour and other performance attributes relevant to PV off‑grid use; it does not provide PV system sizing or power conversion design rules.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Battery manufacturers, test laboratories, PV system designers and integrators, certification bodies, standards committees and researchers in renewable energy storage.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: IEC 61427‑1:2013 is the published first edition (2013) and is listed as the active International Standard; the IEC webstore indicates its stability through 2028. Users should check for any later amendments or national adoptions that may introduce deviations.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — it is Part 1 of the IEC 61427 series (PV off‑grid). Part 2 covers on‑grid applications (IEC 61427‑2 and its later amendment/consolidated editions).

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Photovoltaic, off‑grid, secondary batteries, test methods, cycle life, capacity, VRLA, flooded, energy storage, autonomy.