KTC, the World’s No. 1 Testing Certification Institute Leading the Way to the 4th Industrial Revolution
Issuance of certification test reports for performance requirements of PCS for EES systems under group standards.
Benefits such as additional points during competitive bidding for certified companies, contributing to enhanced quality and competitiveness.
▲ Overview of KTC Power Conversion System (PCS) Test Facility
The Korea Testing Certification Institute (KTC, President Ahn Sung-il) announced on the 9th that it has been designated as an accredited testing agency for group standard certification of performance requirements for power conversion systems (PCS) used in electrical energy storage systems (EES systems) by the Korea Smart Grid Association (KSGA, Chairman Koo Ja-kyun).
What is Group Standard Certification?
Group standard certification is a legal and voluntary system established under Article 27 of the Industrial Standardization Act. It involves the issuance of certification to products, services, and other items that meet group standards set by organizations such as SME cooperatives, consumer protection groups, and non-profit organizations to ensure public safety and consumer protection.
Electrical Energy Storage System (EES System)
The EES system stores and uses electrical energy from power grids and renewable energy sources. Although commonly referred to as an energy storage system (ESS) in domestic industries and regulations, the term EES system is adopted based on the IEC definition.
Power Conversion System (PCS)
A PCS converts electrical characteristics to store or release power in energy storage systems. It enables stored energy to be supplied in a form that end users require.
KTC officially began operations as a group standard certification testing agency after receiving the designation certificate from KSGA on January 3.
The performance requirements (SPS-SGSF-025-4-1972) for PCS for electrical energy storage systems address the need for testing PCS capacities not covered by KC certification. This initiative eliminates redundant tests introduced with the KC certification system for EES systems. Since the first group standard established by KSGA in 2012, the standard has undergone three revisions in 2016, 2019, and 2022.
The global smart grid market is expected to grow significantly due to carbon neutrality and the expansion of renewable energy. According to data from the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), the market size is projected to increase from $36 billion (approximately KRW 49 trillion) in 2021 to $160 billion (approximately KRW 216 trillion) by 2030, with an average annual growth rate of 18.2%. As smart grid technologies are critical for enhancing energy efficiency and creating sustainable environments, strengthening group standard certification systems is essential to ensure technical stability and interoperability.
To support the development of the smart grid industry and enhance certification systems, KTC signed a memorandum of understanding with KSGA on December 28, 2023, for collaboration in renewable energy and smart grid industries. Subsequently, KTC pursued registration as a designated testing agency for group standard certification.
KTC underwent rigorous evaluation by KSGA, including its suitability as an accredited testing institution with advanced facilities. The institute was recognized for its capabilities, particularly in electromagnetic compatibility testing. Facilities include a 10m chamber capable of housing PCS over 10 tons and a 600kW power source. These strengths led to KTC’s selection as a designated testing agency in April last year, followed by formal authorization to commence certification operations in October.
As a testing agency, KTC will handle test analyses, submission of relevant materials, and post-management related to group standards.
With certification benefits such as additional points for competitive bidding under the National Contract Act, KTC anticipates contributing to industry revitalization by supporting companies in securing product competitiveness. Furthermore, it aims to assist export companies through tailored support programs, facilitating their entry into global markets.
KTC President Ahn Sung-il stated, “This marks a pivotal milestone in enhancing the competitiveness of the smart grid industry and advancing standardization systems. We remain committed to safeguarding public safety and fostering continuous growth in smart grid technology and the industry.”