Mar 24 2010
With the opening of its largest photovoltaic certifying facility in Europe, Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a leading safety testing and certification provider, has expanded its global footprint in the renewable energy sector. The new facility demonstrates UL’s commitment to advance the development of reliable and safe solar energy equipment and technologies throughout the world. The new facility is located near Frankfurt airport in Germany.
As the photovoltaic industry is experiencing a significant rate of growth across the world, UL is expanding its footprint in Asia and Europe. According to BBC Research, from 2001 to 2008, the total installed capacity of solar photovoltaic across the world has increased by over 1,000%. The report also predicted the sale of solar photovoltaic technologies to touch $32.3 billion by 2012.
The new UL’s German testing facility comprises 22 state-of-the-art testing chambers, including four damp heat chambers, fourteen climate chambers, two temperature and humidity ovens and two large walk-ins. The 22,600 square-foot facility also has other advanced testing equipment. The company’s European customers are offered faster and cost-effective testing processes due to its proximity and the presence of local language speaking skilled engineering team.
Vice President and General Manager for UL's Global Energy business, Jeff Smidt, said the launch of its German facility is another milestone in its expansion strategy and demonstrates the company’s commitment to its customers and the industry.