UL 8801 Outline of Investigation Helps Advance Safety of Photovoltaic-Powered Lighting

EIN UL 400

May 7, 2020

UL has issued UL 8801 Outline of Investigation for Photovoltaic-Powered Luminaire Systems.  The outline of investigation describes the requirements used to evaluate requirements for the safety of assemblies that include:

  • PV modules, either separate or integrated with the luminaire
  • Batteries (all chemistries) and charging circuitry
  • Low voltage luminaires
  • Control circuits and related auxiliary devices

The UL 8801 outline of investigation applies to PV-powered luminaire systems that can be fully disconnected from the utility grid or that can include a utility power connection for supplemental battery charging or luminaire operation. The outline covers systems that are fixed in place, portable or intended for periodic/seasonal use with disassembly and storage. These include luminaires for residential, commercial, industrial, municipal and recreation usage such as garden stake lights, street and parking lot lights, park and pathway lighting, building-mounted security or safety lighting, and pop-up tents or relocatable structures lighting.

UL 8801 also includes an optional system performance evaluation to assess the power production, storage and consumption efficiency of the key subassemblies, and to validate producer claims for light output levels.

“UL 8801 demonstrates how we are addressing the increasing complexities of lighting products and systems, as showcased in the active participation and leadership in lighting standards development, technical committees and industry working groups,” said Todd Denison, vice president and general manager, Appliances, HVAC and Lighting at UL. “Helping to bring innovative lighting products to market fast, our teams work with lighting manufacturers early in the product design stage to get ahead of potential issues and avoid late stage production issues that can result in recalls and returns that may affect the bottom line and customer trust.”

Please contact lightinginfo@ul.com for additional information or questions.

Go HERE for more information

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