The lab

The activities of the SUPSI PVLab range from indoor to outdoor testing, passing through data analysis and on site verification. The precise characterization of all the relevant parameters of a PV module is accomplished through instrumentation internally adapted to the highest quality standards. This is possible thanks to the research activities with international and national partners.

What we do

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Characterization
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Safety
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Reliability

History

Take a glimpse at the evolution of photovoltaics at SUPSI University, starting from the first PV tests to the implementation of new technologies in recent days.

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1982

Establishment of Ticino Solare (TISO). Led by Mario Camani, it was built Europe’s first grid-connected photovoltaic system on the roof. consisting of 288 modules with monocrystalline silicon cells with a power output of 10 kW.

1991

Set-up of R&D outdoor test facility.

1993

First complete outdoor tests. 1st test cycle.

1998

Integration of TISO to SUPSI University and the creation of the Laboratory of Energy, Ecology and Economics (LEEE).

2001

Solar flash simulator addition for indoor tests. ISO17025 accreditation of indoor electrical measurements and start of measurement service activity. Expansion of the LEEE laboratory and the foundation of the Institute of Applied Sustainability to the Built Environment (ISAAC) originating from the TISO initiative.

2006

Start of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) activities. These focus on the incorporation of photovoltaics modules to buildings as part of the structure.

2008

Creation of the laboratory for lifetime tests – safety – mechanical laboratory and the beginning of industry oriented services.

2009

First PV integration project in Nepal, Ethiopia, Togo e Cameron including test stands and workshops with the Swiss platform for Renewable Energy, Energy and Resource Efficiency Promotion in Developing and Transition Countries (REPIC).

2010

ISO17025 accreditation as  “Swiss PV module test centre”. Start of full product testing for industries.

2011

Test cycle on thin film modules.

2017

Swiss Solar Prize to Sahay Solar Association and SUPSI University for a project about promoting photovoltaic technology in Ethiopia.

2018

Test cycle on bifacial and colored modules.

2021-2022

Test cycle on high efficiency modules, mock-ups for accelerated testing and standard means.

The team behind PVLab

A team of researchers with long experience in the photovoltaic industry, prepared to respond to the new needs of market players, both local and international: industry, installers, insurance companies and power companies.

Mauro Caccivio

Team manager. Electronic engineer, he has been working in the photovoltaic field since 2002.

Giovanni Bellenda

Laboratory technician manager. Metrologist.

Domenico Chianese

Senior Researcher. He has been working in the photovoltaic sector and in SUPSI since 1992. Team advisor. 2017 Swiss solar prize winner.

Gabi Friesen

Senior Researcher. She has been working in the photovoltaic field since 1995.

Ebrar Özkalay

PhD student. His research focuses on the long-term reliability and performance of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) modules and systems.

Moreno Ronchi

Laboratory technician. Supports the functioning of scientific processes, projects and tests.

Flavio Valoti

PhD student with research focused on the electrical characterization and reliability of innovative solar cells and modules.

Valentina Jennarelli

Quality manager. Engineer. She has been working for 13 years in quality assurance.

Mattia Ceretti

Scientific collaborator. Supports the fuctioning of scientific processes, projects and tests.

Dominika Chudy

Researcher. Her research focuses on the BIPV  topics, with particular focus on reliability, advanced characterisation and testing.

SUPSI – Scuola universitaria professionale della svizzera italiana

The University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) is one of the nine universities of applied sciences recognized by the Swiss Confederation. SUPSI offers a wide range of study programs – Bachelor, Master and Continuing education – in 8 different areas, in addition to Applied research and Service provision. It provides cutting edge, practice-oriented education.

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