CENER inaugurates a new Solar Thermal Systems Testing Laboratory accredited by ENAC
The National Renewable Energy Centre (CENER) has launched a new solar thermal systems testing laboratory at its facilities in Sangüesa (Navarra). This laboratory, which began operations in the summer of 2024, specializes in the evaluation and certification of compact solar thermal systems. The facility is accredited by ENAC (the Spanish National Accreditation Body), ensuring that the tests conducted comply with the highest standards of quality and reliability, according to ISO 9806 and EN 12976 standards.
CENER’s new laboratory is equipped to test compact solar thermal systems, which consist of a solar thermal collector and a hot water storage tank. These systems play a crucial role in the generation of renewable energy by harnessing solar radiation to produce hot water for
Accreditations, Solar Keymark, and international recognition
The ENAC accreditation ensures that the laboratory complies with all technical and regulatory requirements, both nationally and internationally. This new testing facility has been recognized by major certification bodies, including AENOR, DIN CERTCO, EUROVENT, KIWA, and others, positioning itself as a benchmark for the certification of solar thermal systems in Europe. In this regard, the tests carried out in this laboratory are a key step toward obtaining the Solar Keymark certification, the most relevant and widely recognized certification scheme for solar thermal products in the European market.
Solar Keymark certification is essential for manufacturers and developers of solar thermal systems to validate the performance and reliability of their products and to commercialize them in major European markets. By complying with the tests accredited under ISO 9806 and EN 12976 standards, systems can obtain this certification, ensuring a high level of quality and reliability for consumers.
Laboratory operations
CENER’s solar thermal systems laboratory has been operational since the summer of 2024 and is now ready to receive testing requests from clients. While the main testing campaign typically runs between April and October, the laboratory is available to perform tests year-round, adapting to clients’ needs.
The launch of this laboratory strengthens CENER’s commitment to advancing renewable energies and its fundamental role in the fight against climate change. This facility complements other research and development areas within the center, positioning CENER as a leading institution in the validation of technologies for the energy transition.
About CENER
The National Renewable Energy Centre (CENER) is a leading institution in renewable energy research and development. Based in Navarra, Spain, CENER provides advanced technological services at the international level and collaborates closely with businesses, organizations, and governments to foster the development of sustainable technologies. Its areas of expertise include solar photovoltaic and solar thermal energy, wind energy, biomass, energy storage, and grid integration, among others.