Colorado States University's Solar Simulator

The Solar Energy Applications Laboratory recently commissioned the United States' only large-scale solar simulator. The simulator consists of an array of 28 stadium lamps that provide light equivalent to bright sunlight. It allows us to perform experiments on a solar collector array of dimensions up to 4 foot by 8 foot.

The simulator is equipped with cold water supply conditioning, a wind generator, a full complement of instrumentation, and is controlled by a micro-computer.

We are currently using the simulator to develop and verify computer models for use in the Solar Rating and Certification CorporationUs solar domestic hot water system performance certifying program. An evacuated tube integral storage collection system is currently under evaluation.

The indoor solar simulator facility provides a unique opportunity for future collaboration with the solar industry. Such a facility can be used in product development, system certification, and model verification.

The indoor solar simulator facility meets all ASHRAE Standard 95 specifications for indoor solar simulators. The simulator complements our generic systems testing facility and the outdoor capability described elsewhere.

Home