Solar technologies use the sun's energy to provide heat, light, hot water, electricity, and even cooling, for our homes, businesses, and industry. NREL is working with the Department of Energy to accelerate the development of solar technologies as energy sources for the nation and world. We also educate the public about the value of solar as a secure, reliable, and clean energy choice.
NREL's Solar Energy Technologies Program supports the Lab's R&D in two major solar energy technologies — photovoltaic research and solar thermal research.
Photovoltaic Research
NREL performs fundamental research in PV-related materials; develops PV cells in several material systems; characterizes and improves performance and reliability of PV cells, modules and systems; assists industry with standardized tests and performance models for PV devices; and helps the PV industry accelerate manufacturing capacity and commercialization of various PV technologies.
Solar Thermal Research
Concentrating Solar Power — NREL has a lead role in analyzing cost and performance of solar systems, developing parabolic trough technology for solar electricity generation, and developing advanced technologies such as concentrating photovoltaics. Researchers support the development of new designs and manufacturing processes for solar components and systems with an emphasis on improved performance, reliability, and service life.
Solar Heating — NREL is working with the solar industry to lower the cost of solar water heating systems. Laboratory researchers provide assistance with prototype development of new polymer (plastic) systems through modeling and optimization, characterization of the systems' performance, and accelerated materials durability testing.
The nation's premier research facility for PV is the National Center for Photovoltaics (NCPV), headquartered at NREL. Solar thermal research is performed in NREL's Center for Buildings and Thermal Systems.
Learn more about NREL's Solar Energy Technologies Research.
NREL supports the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Solar Energy Technologies Program.
Contact Roland Hulstrom with questions regarding NREL's Solar Energy Technologies Program.
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