#181: Stress Testing the Future of Solar with RETC

In this episode of Earthlings 2.0, we speak with Cherif Kedir, President and CEO of the Renewable Energy Test Center (RETC), about what it takes to ensure solar panels can perform reliably for decades in the field. Cherif discusses RETC's PV Module Index (PVMI) and Thresher Test, how solar testing has evolved as technologies and operating environments have changed, and the role third-party validation plays in building confidence across the industry. The conversation also explores advances in solar module efficiency, the potential of perovskite solar cells, and how testing must continue to evolve as manufacturers introduce new materials and designs.Key Points:Solar certification is the starting point, not the finish line – Cherif explains that basic certification historically focused primarily on whether solar modules could operate safely. RETC's Thresher program was developed to go further, evaluating the durability and reliability characteristics that determine how modules could perform over decades of deployment.Solar panels need to be tested for the conditions they will actually encounter – RETC continually adapts its testing to reflect real-world stresses, including heat, humidity, thermal cycling, wind loading, UV exposure, corrosion and hail. Testing also evolves as module sizes, materials and technologies change.Independent testing helps reduce risk for long-term solar investments – With significant capital invested in projects expected to operate for decades, developers and financial institutions need confidence in the products they select. Cherif explains how independent testing, sample verification and chain-of-custody controls provide technical due diligence that helps stakeholders evaluate solar technologies before deployment.Cherif Kedir, President and CEO of RETC, President and CEO of VDE Americas, LinkedInSarah Malpeli, Earthlings 2.0 Guest Host, Vice President of Client Services and Growth at Technica Communications, LinkedIn🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!