Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. reports that its solar modules have passed the Blowing Sand Test based on DIN EN 60068-2-68 LC2 by SGS, the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. The SGS test result confirms that Suntech's solar modules are suitable for solar installations in desert regions.

"As solar energy proliferates around the world, it is critical to develop solar modules that can perform optimally in different terrains and environments. For our customers, passing the Blowing Sand Test confirms that Suntech's solar modules are well-suited for desert regions and can withstand high-velocity sand and windy conditions," said Dr. Stuart Wenham, Suntech's Chief Technology Officer.

"Quality assurance is an integral part of Suntech's value proposition, and we pride ourselves on rigorous testing procedures to ensure that our customers have a product that can operate for 25 years anywhere on the globe."

Dr. Daniel Deng, Technical Manager for SGS said, "SGS follows an internally developed test procedure and can customize specifications like sand homogeneity, sand concentration, sand shape and wind speed according to single selected deserts.

"We were extremely impressed with the quality of Suntech's solar modules and their ability to withstand the Blowing Sand Test that replicates the conditions of a heavy desert sandstorm. Endurance testing is critical in order to understand the reliability and longevity of solar panels in real world conditions."

To determine the effects on solar panels of dust and sand suspended in air, SGS's Desert Dust Test simulates the erosion effects of high-velocity sand particles within dust chambers.

Pulses of compressed air are blown through a manifold located in the bottom of a collection trough, forcing dust up and over the solar module.

Suntech solar modules passed the maximum power determination, the insulation test and the wet leakage current test.