Introduction

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) plays a crucial role in the global electrical and electronic industry by developing and publishing international standards. The "IEC in Figures 2017" report provides a detailed account of the organization's activities, achievements, and statistics throughout the year 2017. This document serves as a testament to the IEC's dedication to facilitating trade, enabling technological innovation, and ensuring safety and efficiency in electrotechnology.

Global Membership and Reach

In 2017, the IEC maintained its position as a truly global organization with 82 Full Member countries from every region of the world. Additionally, 20 Affiliate countries participated in the IEC Affiliate Country Programme, designed to help developing countries understand and implement IEC standards. This widespread representation continues to ensure that IEC standards reflect global market needs and technological requirements.

Standards Development

Standards development remains at the core of the IEC's mission. In 2017, the organization continued to expand its portfolio of international standards, addressing emerging technologies and evolving industry needs.

The year 2017 saw the publication of 282 new International Standards, covering a wide range of technologies from renewable energy systems to smart city infrastructure. Additionally, 543 existing standards were updated to reflect technological advancement and changing industry requirements. These standards enable the global exchange of goods and services by removing technical barriers to trade.

Conformity Assessment

IEC's Conformity Assessment systems are essential for verifying that products, systems, and services meet the requirements of IEC standards. These systems provide manufacturers and suppliers with a way to prove compliance with internationally recognized standards.

The IECEE (IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components) and IECEx (IEC System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres) continued to expand in 2017, with increasing numbers of certified products and participating countries. These systems facilitate international trade by providing mutual recognition of test results and certifications.

Key Technical Focus Areas

The IEC's work in 2017 addressed several critical technical areas of global importance:

Energy and Renewables

IEC standards for renewable energy systems, particularly for solar photovoltaics, wind energy, and energy storage, saw significant development in 2017. These standards support the global transition to cleaner energy sources and help integrate renewables into existing power grids.

Smart Cities

The IEC's SyC Smart Cities strategic group made progress in identifying standardization gaps and requirements for smart city technologies. The focus was on creating harmonized standards that enable the interoperability of systems across urban infrastructure.

Digital Transformation

2017 saw continued work on standards related to Industry 4.0, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital transformation. These standards provide frameworks for the implementation of innovative technologies in manufacturing and other sectors.

Electromobility

Standards for electric vehicle charging infrastructure and vehicle-grid integration expanded in 2017, supporting the growing electric vehicle market globally.

Financial Performance

The IEC's financial position remained strong in 2017, enabling continued investment in standardization activities and services to members.

The IEC's revenue of CHF 37.5 million in 2017 came primarily from publications sales and membership fees. The organization maintained a disciplined approach to cost management while investing in its digital infrastructure and services to members.

Member Engagement

IEC events and meetings in 2017 provided platforms for member countries to collaborate on standardization activities:

The 81st IEC General Meeting, held in Vladivostok, Russia, brought together experts from around the world to discuss strategic priorities and technical work. Throughout the year, countless technical meetings facilitated the collaborative development of standards that reflect global consensus.

Partnership Initiatives

Collaboration with other international organizations remained a priority for the IEC in 2017:

• Continued partnership with ISO and ITU through the World Standards Cooperation (WSC)
• Strengthened ties with the International Energy Agency (IEA)
• Expanded cooperation with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)
• Active participation in the World Bank's Sustainable Energy for All initiative

Looking Forward

As 2017 concluded, the IEC looked toward the future with strategic priorities focused on:

1. Addressing the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution through dedicated standardization work
2. Continuing to support global energy transitions and decarbonization
3. Expanding the membership and participation in the Affiliate Country Programme
4. Digitalizing the standardization process and improving services to members
5. Enhancing market relevance through engagement with industry stakeholders

IEC in Figures 2017 demonstrates the organization's ongoing commitment to excellence in electrotechnical standardization. Through the dedication of thousands of experts worldwide, the IEC continues to develop the standards that enable technological innovation, ensure safety, and facilitate international trade in the electrical and electronic sectors.

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