The qualification tests provided in this document should assist in evaluating flat-plate photovoltaic (PV) module design performance, safety, and susceptibility to known failure mechanisms. Emphasis is placed on testing for potential degradation of module performance resulting from environmental weathereing, mechanical loading, corrosion, and shadowing. The procedures given in this recommended practice provide a common approach for conducting module qualification tests. While acceptable results from these tests should provide reasonable assurance that the modules produced by the same processes as those that pass these tests will perform reliably in the field after installation, this recommended practice does not address design, safety, or performance of PV systems.