Regional Test Centers
Founded in 2012, the Regional Test Center program supports a network of outdoor research sites that function as a unified technical platform for evaluating emerging photovoltaic technologies under realistic field conditions. Established by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office and managed by Sandia National Laboratories, the overarching goal of the RTC program is to provide technical excellence and high-fidelity data in support of the American solar industry and its stakeholders. Overall, the RTCs help drive the deployment of new solar technologies by demonstrating their robustness across different climate zones, and in doing so play a critical role in growing the supply of American energy.
Under the technical oversight of Sandia National Laboratories, the RTC program reflects Sandia’s decades of experience in the characterization and performance evaluations of solar technologies and the Lab’s commitment to technical excellence. Operated in partnership with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the University of Central Florida, Michigan Technological University, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, the program also draws broadly on the expertise and capabilities of its partner institutions. Collectively, the six sites in the RTC program generate validated performance data to support the commercialization of existing and prototype PV technologies and provide a platform for research to improve the efficiency and resilience of PV systems across different climates.
Resources
Sandia National Laboratories names UL Lafayette a Regional Test Center for Emerging Solar Technologies, University of Louisiana Lafayette’s University News
UL Lafayette dedicates Antoun Hall as a new solar research hub, KATC, Arcadiana’s News Channel
UL solar farm to be part of national Department of Energy research network, The Arcadiana Advocate
UL Solar Farm to Be Part of National Department of Energy Research Network, Louisiana Farm Bureau News
Work with Us
We partner with large and small businesses, universities, and government agencies. With multiple agreement types to select from, partners can access world-class science, engineering, experts, and infrastructure.
Contact
Laurie Burnham
RTC Project Lead
lburnha@sandia.gov