LABORATORY Energy Exchange Lab Facility for tests on advanced district heating and cooling networks. Foto: Eurac Research/Ivo Corrà

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1 LABORATORY Energy Exchange Lab Facility for tests on advanced district heating and cooling networks

2 Energy Exchange Lab Innovative low-temperature networks that gather heat into the system at variable temperature levels (at a minimum of 30 C) have opened up a new frontier in the field of district heating and cooling (DHC) systems. These next generation plants, along with traditional plants, can be tested under dynamic conditions at our Eurac Research laboratory. Our laboratory can reproduce on small-scale the operation of an entire DHC network from thermal energy production and distribution to the end use by homeowners. Its flexible infrastructure that recreates different operational configurations allows researchers to study the optimal management of the network with respect to heat transfer from multiple sources, along with tests of the control system hardware and software. The laboratory consists of an external setup, which includes the district heating network pipelines and a concentrated solar thermal field, and an internal setup, comprised of the main energy production system and user substations Energy Production System The energy production system and solar thermal system are connected and include a gas boiler, an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) unit and an absorption chiller. This permits the emulation and testing of a trigeneration system connected to the network. The overall configuration allows for the study and optimisation of a non-programmable source of thermal and electrical energy. User Substations Electric heat pumps can emulate users who are taking heat out or feeding it into the low temperature network. Our laboratory lets us study the interfaces through which the user takes energy for the purpose of heating and domestic hot water or feeds it back into the network (when the heat pump is in reverse operation mode). Testing Controllers and Machinery We can test the control logics, as well as the operation and communication of the controllers, with respect to both the individual parts of the circuit and the system as a whole. Furthermore, the infrastructure can be used as a test bench for innovative technologies, such as mini-orc units, absorption machines that are powered by a heat transfer fluid at temperatures up to 250 C, and district heating network substations Company Service Expertise Our experts have honed their skills through extensive international research networks. This knowledge-base, combined with the flexibility of the Energy Exchange Lab, can support private companies that focus on heating and cooling systems based on renewable sources, hybrid systems, and strategies for controlling complex systems to develop innovative new products. District Heating and Cooling Network Rete di teleriscaldamento e teleraffrescamento Fernwärme- und Fernkühlungsnetz Solar Field 45 kw 200 C Gas Boiler 70 kw 200 C Organic Ranking Cycle 40 kw(t) Heat Pump 25 kw Heat Pump 35 kw Absorption Chiller 35 kw Traditional Substation 50 kw Heat Exchanger 50 kw Dry Cooler 130 kw Energy production system / Sistema di produzione di energia / Energieproduktion User Substation / Sottostazione di utenza / Übergabestation Contact: Roberto Fedrizzi Group leader - Sustainable cooling and heating systems, Institute for Renewable Energy, roberto.fedrizzi@eurac.edu

3 RESEARCH TOPIC Urban and Regional Energy Systems We plan sustainable energy transition for cities and regions

4 Urban and Regional Energy Systems We focus on: Sustainable and smart energy transition for climate change mitigation Integration of the energy system into complex urban and regional systems Promotion of energy self-sufficiency as a driver for local and sustainable economic development Innovation of business models to support a fast and affordable energy transition Modelling of complex systems to define and compare scenarios and alternatives Detailed Description Planning and implementing a transition to a sustainable and smart energy system requires a deep understanding of a region and the supply and demand of existing energy. The planning process must consider potential energy savings, the exploitation of renewable sources, explore synergies with neighbouring regions and conclude with the identification of the most sustainable scenario for the local energy system. Eurac Research experts in urban and regional energy systems take a multidisciplinary approach to the integration of energy planning into the urban planning of a region to promote sustainable growth. Energy planning can help regions achieve national and international energy targets, which can also be a driver of economic development, promoting entrepreneurial activities and employment. Thanks to our researchers multidisciplinary skills, public institutions and companies from the energy sector, experts and firms can create energy plans tailored to the characteristics of their regions. Some of our latest achievements: Our experts are coordinating large-scale international urban district renewal projects focussed on smart cities in numerous urban centres, including Bolzano-Bozen and Trento. In Bolzano, we are upgrading large social housing districts (over 30,000 m2) by extending and optimising the district heating network and creating a number of energy smart points. In Trento, we are supporting the implementation of measures for electric mobility, ICT systems and energy efficiency of buildings. Our researchers have also assisted public administrations in regions such as South Tyrol and Lower Austria by simulating optimal energy scenarios. Further expertise includes: energy planning support to consortia of municipalities and regions (for example in Trentino Alto Adige: Alta Val di Non, Rotaliana-Königsberg, Val Pusteria, Val Passiria etc.; Marche region, Valle d Aosta, Veneto, Maritime Alps Park, Triclav Park in Slovenia, Vorarlberg in Austria, etc....); support for the development of plans for smart energy transition in 15 European cities; support to define policies and sectoral studies for EUSALP, the Italian Ministry of the Environment, Croatia, Montenegro, FYROM, Slovenia, Greece, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, France; development of sectoral studies for the energy transition in EU28. The services we offer: Support for the development and implementation of smart energy plans for cities and regions in the sectors of built environment, mobility and regional energy development Selection of the most appropriate energy technologies for a specific regional context Preparation of feasibility studies for the technical, economic and social viability of an energy transition Analysis of the compatibility of energy transition instruments with the spatial characteristics of settlements: mapping of potentials and integration within planning instruments Support for the development and coordination of policies for energy transition on an urban, regional, national and international scale Preparation of models and simulations, creation of scenarios and comparison of alternatives for energy transition within complex systems (cities and regions) Support for energy transition through the use of big data and deep learning Contact: Daniele Vettorato Group leader - Urban and regional energy systems, Institute for Renewable Energy, daniele.vettorato@eurac.edu

5 RESEARCH TOPIC Photovoltaic Systems We study and improve the quality, performance and reliability of modules and photovoltaic systems Foto: Eurac Research

6 Photovoltaic Systems We focus on: Performance and reliability of photovoltaic modules and systems Architectural and electrical integration of photovoltaic systems in buildings Integration of renewable energy plants in the electrical grid Detailed Description Photovoltaic (PV) system experts from Eurac Research are carrying out R&D to improve the quality and reliability of PV products, solutions and technologies. We work on PV and inverter modules, study free-field or building-installed systems and improve architectural and energy integration in electrical distribution networks. Our researchers help manufacturers develop high-quality components. We assist installers to build long-life PV plants and help public and private owners and investors to enjoy a low-risk. long-term economic returns. We also encourage policymakers and administrators to use reliable technology. Our cutting-edge modelling tools and ad hoc laboratories support the R&D projects of companies and other institutions. Some of our latest achievements: Our researchers have developed methodologies that calculate the economic impact of frequent faults and problems with photovoltaic fields, whether they be component-related or due to a non-ideal design. We have also created interactive maps that show the PV potential of an entire region from the perspective of a single roof. Working with a local energy distributor, our researchers have formulated advanced algorithms to forecast the total electrical production of 2,000+ PV plants scattered around the region. We have studied typical degradation performance values in various categories of photovoltaic systems. Finally, our experts have, on numerous occasions, supported the initial phases of PV system design, both on a single building and at district level, to identify areas that are best suited for installation of the modules. The services we offer: Consultancy to analyse the technical risk of investments in photovoltaic systems Development of long-term strategic analyses for the use of photovoltaic technology at the regional and national level Optimisation of the use of solar resources at a building and district level Laboratory tests allow for: measurement of the electrical performance of photovoltaic modules through a solar simulator performance monitoring of accelerated ageing cycles in a climatic chamber measurement of the efficiency of inverters and batteries the study of the architectural integration of photovoltaic modules the study of the integration of photovoltaic systems in distribution networks Contact: David Moser Group leader, Photovoltaic systems, Institute for Renewable Energy, david.moser@eurac.edu

7 LABORATORY Multifunctional Façade Lab Laboratory for performance characterisation of multifunctional façades

8 Multifunctional Façade Lab Experimental analysis is an essential approach for complex systems performance assessment in realistic working conditions, as well as for development of numerical models that can accurately predict the performance of building and its components. Our lab tests the thermal and energy performance of envelope systems such as doors and windows, opaque walls and façade modules under stationary and dynamic conditions. Double chamber calorimeter with guard ring Our tests are conducted in a calorimeter (double chamber with guard ring) coupled with a continuous sun simulator. By reproducing temperature, humidity, irradiation and air speed values, the two chambers of the calorimeter can emulate the actual operating environment of the outdoor and indoor side of the sample under analysis. The calorimeter was constructed in accordance with the ISO 8990 standard and is able to accommodate samples of up to 3 x 3 m with a maximum thickness of 50 cm. An extensive sensor system measures parameters such as thermal resistance and capacity. It also characterises the energy performance of passive and active envelope systems. Artificial Sun and Hydraulic Circuit a hydraulic measurement and control circuit to test samples with integrated PV panels, solar collectors and radiating elements. The auxiliary lab components measure energy flows and enable a comprehensive characterisation of the performance of complex envelope systems. Company Service Expertise Thanks to their international network of research institutes and industry partners, our experts are skilled in the fields of zero-energy balance buildings and buildings that are able to adapt to the dynamics of their context (i.e., flexible to reduce energy demand and to improve comfort through optimised management strategies). These skills extend to the development of technical-economic analyses that support investments in energy efficiency and optimise the quality and functionality of living and working environments. This knowledge-base allows researchers to assist companies, designers and managers of buildings in development to characterise and optimise innovative building components and systems, as well as suggest construction and architectural solutions with an optimum cost/benefit ratio. Building envelopes can function as both energy producers and exchangers. Therefore, it is important to verify the behaviour of the entire system by reproducing their operating conditions. Our calorimeter setup has an artificial sun with continuous light and Contact: Roberto Lollini Group leader, Energy efficiency of buildings, Institute for Renewable Energy, roberto.lollini@eurac.edu

9 LABORATORY PV Integration Lab Facility for the integration of photovoltaic systems in buildings and grids

10 PV Integration Lab What is the electrical yield of a thin-film photovoltaic module placed on a south-facing roof inclined 30 from horizontal? What temperature does a module attached to a flat roof or façade reach? How much energy does a prefabricated façade system with integrated transparent or opaque photovoltaic modules produce? How advantageous is it to combine storage systems and PV systems? Which type of inverter should be used? What impact do photovoltaics have on electricity networks? The PV Integration Lab can answer these questions for producers, designers, installers and dealers. Our laboratory characterises the electrical performance of PV modules and systems, both in the open field and integrated within architectural structures, under real conditions. We also test systems that are connected to storage systems and verify their impact on electricity networks. Rotating roof mock-up for tests on architectural integration of photovoltaics The outdoor laboratory has a rotating roof mock-up(5 x 4 m) with a maximum tilt of 60 that can reproduce the pitch of a roof or any type of cover. The rotating mock-up is connected to a monitoring system that can evaluate the efficiency of any type of module through the electrical and environmental parameters (such as yield, radiation, temperature). Façade for tests on photovoltaic modules integrated into architecture An exterior façade structure of 4 x 6 m can evaluate, under real conditions, the electrical yield of PV modules integrated into systems of active solar façades. The façade can support heavy loads to better recreate the actual conditions of a building in any weather condition. The structure is divided into six 2 x 2 m modules that can simultaneously accommodate various façade blocks. A monitoring system has also been designed to test complex façade systems, such as those that can integrate PV, electrical storage and control systems. The infrastructure is also equipped with a thermal box that keeps the inside of the solar façade at temperatures typical of the interior of residential/commercial buildings. Photovoltaic Storage Systems and Inverters Tests on innovative storage systems can be performed via a standard PV system connected to a system of electric storage and electronic loads. Storage systems are key to optimising the ratio between energy produced locally and energy consumed, especially in buildings. Furthermore, it is essential to use suitably-sized inverters to minimise system losses. These must be able to convert the electricity generated from DC to AC with a high efficiency and push PV modules to their maximum power point. We test these requirements through a dedicated setup that performs tests according to the IEC standard. Company Service Expertise The laboratory is part of a wider collaboration between research and business that can take a prototype to a market-ready product, by passing through simulation phases, specific tests and optimisation. Eurac Research offers companies a consolidated knowledge-base that has been developed through international networks and applied in numerous projects with local companies, including focus on quality and reliability of modules, the study of the solar resources and the integration of photovoltaics within buildings and networks. Contact: David Moser Group leader, Photovoltaic systems, Institute for Renewable Energy, david.moser@eurac.edu

11 LABORATORY Solare PV Lab Solar simulator for photovoltaic modules

12 Solare PV Lab Our pulsed light solar simulator measures the electrical performance of PV modules. By subjecting samples to the same controlled and repeatable conditions, these tests permit, for example, the verification of manufacturer-guaranteed performance specifications or the comparison of the electrical yield of different PV module technologies. Solar Simulator We can reproduce the solar spectrum with our class AAA pulsed light solar simulator (IEC ) that has thermal control of the test conditions. The simulator measures the characteristic curve IV of the PV module under standard conditions (defined by IEC 60904). Furthermore, the measurements determine both the performance of the PV module in different combinations of irradiance ( W/m2) and temperature (5-75 C) and its temperature coefficients. Climate Chamber To expand the range of testing of PV modules, the measurements of the solar simulator can be combined with accelerated ageing tests in a climatic chamber. The chamber (1.3 x 1.5 x 2.2 m) simulates the environmental conditions to which the modules of a PV system are exposed during their life cycle, accelerating the natural ageing process to evaluate the performance degradation. Cycles include controlled temperature and humidity conditions: temperatures can range from -40 C to +90 C and relative humidity from 20% to 95%. The chamber is able to accommodate a maximum of 10 standard-size photovoltaic modules per test session. Company Service Expertise The laboratory serves a broader collaboration between research and business that can take a prototype to a market-ready product, passing through simulation phases, specific tests and optimisation. Eurac Research offers companies consolidated knowledge-base that has been developed through international networks and applied in numerous projects with local companies, including focus on quality and reliability of modules, the study of the solar resources and the integration of photovoltaics within buildings and networks. Foto: Eurac Research/Marion Lafogler Contact: David Moser Group leader, Photovoltaic systems, Institute for Renewable Energy, david.moser@eurac.edu

13 RESEARCH TOPIC Energy Efficiency of Buildings We develop solutions and technologies that allow buildings to consume less energy and to be more comfortable, healthy and functional Foto: Eurac Research/Alex Filz

14 Energy Efficiency of Buildings We focus on: Technological concepts and performance assessment methods for complex façade systems Natural and hybrid ventilation, and passive cooling strategies Daylighting, shading systems, and thermal effects of light Indoor environmental quality: measure, perception, and development of personal comfort systems Modelling of occupant behaviour and evaluation of user-building interactions Strategies for energy optimisation in the management of buildings and clusters of buildings Detailed Description Our building experts at Eurac Research work to make energy efficient buildings possible as affordable, comfortable, healthy, and functioning places, with a high market value and minimum need of non-renewable energy in the life cycle, exploiting optimised management strategies in the buildings cluster domain. They support the construction and renovation of public and private buildings driven by reduction of energy demand and at the same time enhancement of the indoor environmental quality in a user-centred and context-tailored approach. To achieve this, our researchers study technologies that exploit the full potential of the natural resources surrounding the building, creating architectural and technological solutions for ventilation and natural lighting. We also develop concepts for innovative and multi-functional façade systems, which integrate systems to produce energy from renewable sources and ventilation devices to improve interaction of the building with the energy networks acting on the demand profiles. Finally, we study models to reduce the technical risk related to renovation measures for buildings and building stock, developing tools for data and information processing as well as for optimum management of the operational phase. Thanks to this research, manufacturers of building components and systems, design firms and builders can benefit from innovative technological and architectural retrofit solutions; investors and owners have detailed analyses of business models and financing schemes at their disposal; energy managers and facility managers are able to monitor actual performance with ad hoc tools; administrators and policymakers benefit from methodological approaches and tools to reduce the energy consumption of whole building stock. The laboratories also test the performance of prototypes of multifunctional façades, evaluate the interaction between façade systems and the indoor environment, study the comfort perception to develop models, control strategies and technology solutions. Some of our latest achievements: As part of a European research consortium, our researchers recently coordinated a project to reduce the energy consumption of shopping centres. We established ventilation and natural-lighting solutions; developed continuous commissioning platform for performance monitoring in the building operation phase; and created methodologies to analyse the indoor comfort in transition spaces. Together with research organizations and companies, our experts developed novel assessment approaches for envelope system and designed a cross-border industry-driven competence centre in the complex façades sector, coordinated the creation of a web-based platform on energy-efficient buildings with useful data for different possible services and market players and researched optimised technology packages, new tools and strategies to encourage large scale deep renovation of existing buildings, also providing reliable business models to support their applications. The services we offer: Development of technological concepts for architectural and envelope systems, performance analysis of a building and assessment of its value and costs throughout its life cycle Modelling and simulation of building and building clusters: general approach, uncertainty analysis, multi-objective optimisation, calibration Evaluation of reliability and performance of the building as an energy system: measurement and verification records, procedures for laboratory analysis on sub-systems and building components Analysis of building stock built in specific regional contexts, to define transformation scenarios focusing on the nearly-zero energy balance target Laboratory testing aims to: verify the thermal and energy performances and management of solar gains of components and envelope systems such as windows and doors, opaque walls and façade modules, under stationary and dynamic conditions optimise the performance of constructive solutions and innovative technologies to increase energy efficiency and comfort in buildings Foto: Eurac Research Contact: Roberto Lollini Group leader, Energy efficiency of buildings, Institute for Renewable Energy, roberto.lollini@eurac.edu

15 RESEARCH TOPIC Energy Efficiency Improvement of Historic Buildings We study how to improve the energy performance of buildings, while preserving their aesthetic value Foto: Eurac Research/Florian Berger

16 Energy Efficiency Improvement of Historic Buildings We deal with: Energy performance of buildings and historic centres Energy efficiency improvement solutions compatible with preservation Thermo-hygrometric performance of buildings and construction nodes Conservation aspects in regeneration and in energy planning Detailed Description Our experts in energy efficiency improvement of historical buildings study the most appropriate solutions to reduce energy consumption in buildings subject to preservation constraints or with valuable historical and artistic characteristics. As standardised solutions do not exist with respect to the implementation of energy improvement measures in historic buildings, every project requires analysis and an ad hoc improvement plan that considers the characteristics of the building, the dictates of historical and artistic heritage regulatory bodies, and the intentions of the owner. Thanks to the work of our researchers, private companies and public institutions have a range of services and skills at their disposal, such as support for conservative restoration projects and energy efficiency improvement; support for the development of energy plans for historical centres; and coordination of the integrated design process that involves the client, the designer, suppliers and maintenance technicians. Finally, the laboratory tests and simulations carried out by our researchers make the analysis of energy performance and thermohygrometric compatibility possible. Some of our latest achievements: Our researchers are coordinating a program at the International Energy Agency that aims to identify the potential use of solar energy to heat and cool historic buildings and develop rehabilitation solutions that respect the cultural characteristics of these buildings. They have also created an atlas of historic buildings in South Tyrol - categorising them by type of construction, renovation and energy balance and have supported the energy efficiency retrofit of historic buildings such as the Casa della Pesa in Bolzano-Bozen and Villa Castelli on Lake Como. The services we offer: Consulting for the needs of owners and the bodies that manage historical and artistic heritage infrastructure Support for building superintendents and public administrators to define guidelines and urban planning tools Support for the work of architects in the planning of operations Support for producers in the development of products and systems for energy efficiency improvement, including design, installation, test phases and performance checks In 2019 a laboratory for the hygrometric analysis of materials and components will become available to support dynamic simulations and the planning of rehabilitation work on historic buildings Foto: Eurac Research/Florian Berger Contact: Alexandra Troi Group leader, Energy efficiency improvement of historic buildings, Institute for Renewable Energy, alexandra.troi@eurac.edu

17 RESEARCH TOPIC Sustainable Heating and Cooling Systems We develop efficient systems for heating and cooling buildings and districts

18 Sustainable Heating and Cooling Systems We deal with: Heating and cooling systems for buildings District heating and district cooling networks Energy Efficiency in industrial plants Detailed Description Our researchers in the field of sustainable heating and cooling systems study efficient solutions for buildings, industry and districts, focussing on the integration of heat pump systems in a variety of applications. In the residential and tertiary sector, heat pumps integrated within systems that also use solar collectors or photovoltaic panels are used to cover heating and cooling loads in different environments. Heat pump systems can also be effectively used in the industrial sector for recovering low-temperature waste heat for production processes that require hot water or steam. Furthermore, using the same heat pump systems, low temperature waste heat from industrial sites and other urban sources (for example, waste heat from supermarket refrigeration systems and data centres) can be suitably recovered in new generation district heating networks. Thanks to the skills of our researchers, industrial partners can benefit from technical support during the design and launch phases of new technologies and from specialist advice during the simulation and monitoring phase of their solutions. Public partners and administrations can benefit from our experience analysing the interaction between demand and the production of thermal energy relating to a single building or a district. We provide two laboratory infrastructures: the Energy Exchange Lab reproduces on a small scale the operation of a district heating and cooling network and enables the study of optimum management for the transfer of heat from/to multiple sources/ users. The laboratory also tests heat generation units and thermal exchange substations up to 50 kw. The Heat Pumps Lab can test single air/water or water/water units up to a power of 400 kw, air/air or water/air units up to a power of 25 kw and entire plants with a capacity of up to 50 kw. Some of our latest achievements In recent years, our researchers have coordinated and/or participated in numerous research and innovation projects funded by the European Commission, focussing on the use of heat pump systems in the retrofit of residential and tertiary buildings. The research group also coordinates two projects aimed at the design, as well as the control of waste heat recovery solutions in low-temperature district heating networks. The services we offer: Development of heat pump systems aimed at coverage of heating and cooling loads, including plant layout and advanced controls Development of heat pump systems aimed at the recovery of low temperature heat on industrial sites and in district heating networks Laboratory tests of heat pumps, thermal exchange substations and systems Contact: Roberto Fedrizzi Group leader - Sustainable cooling and heating systems, Institute for Renewable Energy, roberto.fedrizzi@eurac.edu

19 LABORATORY Accelerated Life Testing Lab Climatic chamber for accelerated life tests

20 Accelerated Life Testing Lab Our climatic chamber (1.3 x 1.5 x 2.2 m) simulates accelerated life cycles to evaluate the degradation of the performance of industrial products such as photovoltaic modules, plastics and electronic components. Cycles include controlled conditions of temperature and humidity. Climatic Chamber The Angelantoni PV4500 climatic chamber incorporates humidification, refrigeration, heating and dehumidification to fully control the temperature and humidity to which the test sample is subjected in its real environment. Temperatures can range from -40 C to +90 C and the relative humidity from 20% to 95%. Company Service Expertise The laboratory is part of a broader collaboration between research and business that can take a prototype to a market-ready product, passing through simulation phases, specific tests and optimisation. Eurac Research offers companies consolidated knowledge-base that has been developed through international networks and applied in numerous projects with local companies, including focus on quality and reliability of modules, the study of the solar resource and the integration of photovoltaics within buildings and networks. Testing on photovoltaic modules and other components The chamber can accommodate up to 10 standard-sized PV modules. Tests comply with the IEC 61215:2016 standards and simulate the environmental conditions to which a photovoltaic system is exposed during its life cycle, accelerating the natural degradation process. It is also possible to test plastic materials and electronic components. Contact: David Moser Group leader, Photovoltaic systems, Institute for Renewable Energy, david.moser@eurac.edu

21 LABORATORY G-value Lab Laboratory for measuring the solar factor

22 G-value Lab The G-value Lab measures the solar factor, which is often referred to as the g-value or solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). SHGC is the amount of solar energy that is transmitted through a glazed component. In our lab, we can measure the solar factor of transparent and semi-transparent envelope elements, including integrated shielding components. The precise measurement of this value improves the performance predictions of simple glazing, as well as of more complex and innovative envelope solutions, and thus facilitates new building projects and restorations. The G-value Lab can record the solar factor under different conditions for 1 x 1 m samples with thicknesses of up to 10 cm. Our skilled Eurac Research team is available to researchers, designers, manufacturers and installers for the performance characterisation of existing products or of the development of new solutions. Measurement of the solar factor of doors and windows and of other transparent and semi-transparent component The laboratory consists of a sun simulator; a climatic chamber for monitoring test conditions (temperature and relative humidity); an insulated support on which the sample is placed; an absorber to remove energy that passes through the specimen; and a hydraulic circuit connected to the absorber that disposes of the removed energy. The configuration of the entire system (for example, a window frame with shading elements) and the boundary conditions (for example, temperature, air speed and angle of incidence of solar radiation) determine the solar factor. Tests for the solar factor of a sample can therefore be carried out in the climate chamber under different environmental conditions and at different angles of incidence. Tests can be tailored to the customer s needs at various levels of complexity and support. With the support of our researchers, standard solar factor measurement tests and customised tests can help improve prototypes and develop new solutions. Types of Tests Performed The experimental set up measures the solar factor according to three methodologies: measurement based on the thermal flow through the use of thermo-flowmeters measurement based on the inlet and outlet temperature of the absorber and on the water flow measurement based on the use of an additional electrical resistance Company Service Expertise Our skills have been honed by our participation in international research networks that support companies in the field of energy efficiency of buildings and natural lighting. The knowledge-base we have acquired, together with the flexibility of the laboratory, allows researchers to assist companies and designers in the performance characterisation and optimisation of individual components, as well as in the development of innovative technological and architectural solutions. Contact: Roberto Lollini Group leader, Energy efficiency of buildings, Institute for Renewable Energy, roberto.lollini@eurac.edu