Solar Simulator
The Steady State Solar Simulator is a large-area, indoor sunlight source used primarily for photovoltaic (PV) testing, solar-energy training and remote laboratory exercises. It reproduces natural sunlight with high fidelity and provides continuous irradiance between roughly one and three “suns” over an illuminated area of about two square metres, allowing full-scale PV modules and arrays to be tested independently of weather and time of day.
Research and development focus
The Steady State Solar Simulator supports research and development across the PV and solar-energy value chain, including:
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Characterisation of PV cells, mini-modules and full-size modules under controlled irradiance and temperature
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Evaluation of new PV technologies and materials under realistic operating spectra
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Testing of solar-assisted and hybrid systems where the electrical output of PV is coupled to other components
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Studies of irradiance and temperature dependence of PV performance, such as power-rating measurements and power-matrix experiments
Remote labs and education
The Steady State Solar Simulator is at the core of SolarLabs , a remote laboratory environment developed at the Division of Heat and Power Technology. SolarLabs connects the physical simulator to a web-based interface, allowing students to run real experiments on PV modules from any location, Energy at KTH .
Through SolarLabs and the simulator, students can:
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Perform standard PV lab exercises (I–V curves, efficiency determination, impact of irradiance and temperature) as part of courses in energy technology and renewable energy systems
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Control irradiance level and operating conditions through a web interface and acquire real-time electrical and environmental data for analysis
The remote lab concept has been showcased in international workshops on remote laboratories for engineering education and is being used to support students both at KTH and at partner universities.
Access and contact
The Steady State Solar Simulator is available for:
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Research projects in photovoltaic and solar-energy technology
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Teaching and training, both on-campus and via remote lab access
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Collaboration with external partners interested in PV component and system testing
For inquiries about experiments, student projects or collaboration, please contact:
