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The process for obtaining RETIE certification for photovoltaic modules in Colombia is streamlined if you already have valid IEC 61215 (design qualification) and IEC 62730 (safety qualification) certificates. RETIE acceptance is based on a "Certification of Conformity" from an accredited body, which relies heavily on these international test reports.
Here is the typical procedure:
Select an Accredited Certification Body (Organismo de Certificación):
You must work with a certification body that is accredited by the Colombian National Accreditation Body (ONAC - Organismo Nacional de Acreditación de Colombia).
Many international certification companies (e.g., TÜV Rheinland, UL, Intertek, SGS, Bureau Veritas) have local offices or partnerships in Colombia and are ONAC-accredited for the RETIE scheme.
Submit Application and Technical Documentation:
Copies of your valid IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 certificates.
The complete set of test reports from the original IEC certifications.
Detailed product datasheets.
Manufacturing process information.
A list of critical components (e.g., cells, glass, backsheet, junction box, frame).
Factory quality control documentation (e.g., ISO 9001 certificate).
Apply to the chosen certification body and submit a comprehensive technical file. This file must include:
Technical Review and Gap Analysis:
The Colombian certification body will review your IEC test reports against the specific requirements of the RETIE standard.
While RETIE is heavily based on the IEC standards, the reviewer will check for complete alignment. This is a crucial step. They are essentially verifying that your existing tests prove compliance with RETIE's safety and performance criteria.
Possible Additional Testing (if required):
RETIE has a unique national deviation not covered by the standard IEC tests.
Your existing test reports lack a specific data point or test sequence required by the Colombian authority.
Your certificates are nearing expiration.
In most cases, if your IEC certificates are complete and up-to-date, no additional testing is needed. This is the primary benefit.
However, the certifier may require specific additional tests if:
Factory Inspection (Audit):
RETIE certification requires an initial factory audit to ensure your manufacturing process and quality control system can consistently produce products that meet the certified specifications.
This audit is mandatory and is separate from the product testing. It cannot be waived based on your IEC certificates alone, though having ISO 9001 can streamline the process.
Issuance of the RETIE Certificate of Conformity:
Once the certification body confirms that all requirements (document review, testing, and factory audit) are met, they will issue the official RETIE Certificate of Conformity for your PV modules.
This certificate allows you to affix the RETIE mark on your products and sell them in the Colombian market.
Yes, timeliness is a critical factor. The validity and acceptability of your underlying IEC certificates are subject to strict time limits.
Validity of IEC Certificates:
Your IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 certificates must be valid at the time of the RETIE application and issuance. The Colombian certification body will not accept expired certificates.
Most IEC certificates for PV modules are valid for a certain period, typically linked to the "Top Runner" rule or a defined validity period, after which they must be renewed.
Age of Test Reports (The "3-Year Rule"):
This is the most important timeliness rule. The test reports supporting your IEC certificates generally must be less than three (3) years old from the date of testing.
Rationale: The technology and manufacturing processes can change. Authorities require recent test data to ensure the current production models are identical to the ones originally certified.
If your test reports are older than 3 years, the certification body will likely require re-testing of critical safety and performance sequences or a full re-certification. This can significantly increase the cost and time of the process.
Validity of the RETIE Certificate:
Once issued, the RETIE Certificate of Conformity itself has a validity period, which is typically five (5) years.
To maintain the certificate's validity, the certification body will require annual surveillance audits of the factory.
| Document/Activity | Timeliness Requirement |
|---|---|
| IEC 61215 / 61730 Certificates | Must be valid (not expired). |
| Underlying IEC Test Reports | Generally must be less than 3 years old. |
| RETIE Certificate of Conformity | Typically valid for 5 years. |
| Factory Surveillance | Annual audits are required to maintain the RETIE certificate. |
Conclusion:
Using your existing IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 certificates is the standard and most efficient path to RETIE certification in Colombia. The key to a smooth process is to ensure your IEC certificates are current and your test reports are recent (within 3 years). Always confirm the specific requirements with your chosen ONAC-accredited certification body before starting the application.
