Renewable and alternative energies
and the IEC
 Many countries and international bodies have taken an active interest in renewable and alternative energy technologies. This includes the more traditional energy sources – like hydroelectric power – as well as the newer ones covering solar photovoltaics, wind turbine systems and fuel cells. This growing interest comes from falling costs and rising yields in this area, as well as the desire to help reduce pollution.
Standardization helps these technologies to become marketable by providing a foundation for certification systems, promoting international trade of uniform high- quality products and supporting transfer of expertise from traditional energy systems. The very nature of the renewable energy technologies means that standardization requires a dedicated and on-going effort to keep pace with developments in the various fields.
What is the link between IEC standards and renewable energies? It has to do with the environment. The IEC recognizes the growing importance of preserving the environment and the role electrotechnical standardization has to play to foster sustainable development. It is the IEC’s responsibility to contribute actively to the evolving standards framework for the benefit of the environment. For this purpose, the IEC co-operates with ISO and regional standards development organizations. With respect to product-related standards, IEC TCs must continuously assess and improve new and existing standards in view of reducing adverse environmental impacts over the whole life-cycle of products.
The IEC established the Advisory Committee on Environmental Aspects (ACEA) to advise on questions concerning the environment. ACEA’s principal task is one of co-ordination for IEC TCs and SCs to help them address environmental issues when preparing their standards. To carry out its mandate, ACEA keeps itself abreast of the issues in its field and remains up-to-date on regulatory developments.
For more information, please visit our Renewable and Alternative Energies Zone. |
