IEC: International Electrotechnical Commission

Who They Are & What They Create

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a global, not-for-profit SDO that prepares and publishes international standards for all electrical, electronic, and related technologies. The IEC’s standards cover a vast array of topics, from power generation and transmission to consumer electronics, semiconductors, and industrial automation.

Industries Supported

IEC standards are a cornerstone for any industry that uses electricity or electronics, including:

• Energy & Utilities
• Electronics & Consumer Technology
• Renewable Energy (solar, wind)
• Industrial Automation
• Telecommunications
• Medical Equipment

Detailed History

Founded in 1906, the IEC was created to unify the world’s efforts in electrical and electronic standards. Its establishment was a direct result of the lack of uniformity in electrical measurements and terminology, which was a major barrier to international trade and technical cooperation. Early IEC meetings focused on creating standardized terminology and units of measurement, such as the hertz (for frequency) and the ampere (for current). Over the 20th century, as technology advanced, the IEC expanded its work to cover new fields like radio, telecommunications, and computing. The IEC works closely with other SDOs like the ISO and ITU to ensure a cohesive global standards framework.