This center, located in the College of Engineering at North Carolina State, was established in 1988 and is sponsored by the Energy Division of the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the US Department of Energy. The goal is to develop programs that will encourage the use of solar energy by communities and citizens throughout the state and the world. The Center conducts research to improve solar technologies and provides informational and hands-on support for developers and residents who wish to incorporate solar energy into an existing or new home. It is regarded as one of the top solar energy centers in the nation and has won several awards. Experts review homebuilders plans, based on orientation, window placement, shading, overhangs, landscaping, appliance efficiency, and resource-efficient building materials, to ensure maximum solar benefits.
Helps create local committees that develop renewable energy programs in their community.
Development of educational materials, to be used as part of high school science curriculum, which teach the principles of sustainability and energy efficiency.