Working with Us
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL's) Measurement and Characterization (M&C) division tests and analyzes thousands of photovoltaic (PV) material and device samples each year in addition to its own basic research projects. Industry, academia, government and other outside organizations are welcome to work with us and will benefit from the finest PV measurement and characterization capabilities in the world. We can make available a wide array of state-of-the-art equipment and capability staffed by more than 30 experts with more than 450 years of collective experience in semiconductor materials and device characterization.
For advice on what measurements or characterizations would best help you to meet your PV technology objectives and what M&C capabilities are available for this, contact one of the following:
- General assistance — Pete Sheldon, 303-384-6553
- Analytical microscopy — Mowafak Al-Jassim, 303-384-6602
- Device performance — Keith Emery, 303-384-6632
- Electro-optical characterization — Dean Levi, 303-384-6605
- Surface analysis — Sally Asher, 303-384-6450
NREL is the premier U.S.-government laboratory for testing performance of PV devices. We test all types of devices from around the world, putting all PV performance measurement "on the same page." We will test your cell or module and provide certified data on its spectral responsivity and its power, efficiency, and other current versus voltage performance parameters. Simply submit the device and an appropriate form.
In working with you, we can transmit data and analyses on your samples via a password-protected ftp site. For help in using this ftp site, contact Keith Emery.
Much of M&C research work is performed under U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) block grant funding and available to other DOE laboratories and other DOE-funded projects. If your PV project receives funding from the Solar America Initiative or another DOE program, check with the appropriate research area above, we may already be authorized to help you.
Many other PV measurements and characterization research projects can be handled under a special program of Analytical Service or Technical Service Agreements that can bring M&C expertise to bear on the challenges facing your PV technology development with a minimum of paperwork or delay. Larger collaborative projects can be conducted under cooperative research and development (CRADA) or work-for-others (WFO) agreements. To discuss partnership contract options contact NREL's Technology Transfer Office or contact Carrieann McDonough at 303-384-7351.
Other NREL PV research programs are also available for collaborative projects.
For more information about M&C capabilities, see our brochures:
Analytical microscopy (PDF 455 KB) Download Adobe Reader.
Device performance (PDF 424 KB)
Electro-optical characterization (PDF 458 KB)
Surface analysis (PDF 631 KB)
