As the drive toward electrification continues to gain momentum, the focus on the safety and efficiency of power control systems (PCS) is growing. Regulatory bodies, consumers and manufacturers are all intensifying their scrutiny, with an eye for robust safety requirements.
UL Solutions can help manufacturers navigate the evolving regulatory landscape for PCS products and components. We offer testing and certification services to evaluate the safety and reliability of PCS products and components against emerging requirements to help support the development of compliant products.
Power control systems (PCS)
A PCS monitors the output of power sources and regulates or limit current or power within predefined limits. This can involve a single device or a complex array of devices working in concert. Unlike the energy management system (EMS), which focuses on optimizing energy usage and cutting costs, the PCS addresses the essential aspects of load control and safety.
PCS installations can deliver significant benefits to end consumers. They can serve as a more affordable alternative to electrical panel or utility upgrades, help end users optimize energy efficiency and therefore reduce associated costs, and protect equipment from power surges.
PCS components can include:
- Generation devices, including inverters and engine generators.
- Load control applications, such as electric vehicle (EV) charging management.
- Energy storage systems.
- Loads.
- Circuit controllers.
- Additional equipment managing current flow.
Understanding the importance of PCS certification
UL 3141, the Outline of Investigation (OOI) for Power Control Systems, defines requirements for the safety and reliability of PCS products and components. This OOI is applicable to PCS across various settings, including residential homes, commercial buildings and areas adjacent to electrical panels.
UL Solutions applies our extensive technical expertise and industry knowledge to offer PCS certification to UL 3141 requirements. Certification can help manufacturers, builders and other stakeholders navigate emerging requirements for evolving technologies, including smart panel boards and load management systems.
UL Solutions PCS testing, evaluation and certification services
- UL 3141 certification – We evaluate products for compliance with UL 3141 requirements, which can help manufacturers facilitate access to key markets.
- Product development support – For those not yet ready for full certification, we offer preliminary design investigations and gap analyses. This can help customers understand certification requirements and prepare their products accordingly.
- Field evaluations – We also offer site-specific evaluations to help regulatory authorities assess product compliance. Successful evaluation can lead to installation approvals, promoting broader adoption and integration.
Get connected with our team
Engage with UL Solutions for support for your PCS products.