Renewable Energy Test Center (RETC LLC), a subsidiary of VDE, has announced the successful acquisition of SolarPTL LLC. By combining capabilities, RETC and SolarPTL will provide clients with the industry’s best in the testing and certification of renewable energy products and systems. This also expands RETC’s national footprint to better reach customers through the United States with locations in California, Nevada, and Arizona and their expanded reach in Europe as a member of the VDE Group.
“For over 130 years, the VDE has stood for the highest quality standards,” said VDE CEO Ansgar Hinz. “As an independent technology organization, we use our experience and our network to promote sustainable energy solutions and accelerate innovation in this field.”
In conversations with clients, RETC has repeatedly heard the need for an integrated solution that allows for a broader range of testing solutions under one roof. With RETC’s acquisition of SolarPTL’s, customers now have access to more streamlined processes, competitive costs, and a consistently high quality of service unlocked by this partnership. For SolarPTL’s customers, the acquisition provides access to trailblazing leadership and applied learnings from RETC’s hail damage risk assessment of solar modules, among other joint research and development towards breakthrough testing methodologies, efficiency enhancements, and safety protocols.
As an independent testing laboratory with the highest level of accreditation, RETC enables data-driven approaches to product and project development, which mitigate sources of risk and uncertainty. The acquisition of SolarPTL, a pioneer in the field of evaluating photovoltaic quality and performance, is a huge step in providing customers with a complete integrated solution for all their testing and certification needs.
“These services benefit solar industry stakeholders and the businesses and communities that require reliable power systems,” said RETC President and CEO Cherif Kedir. “To combine these two powerhouses means we can provide the most robust tools and services while strengthening our positions as trusted partners for manufacturers, installers, and project developers. As a combined entity, we can provide testing solutions and industry insights that contribute to shaping standards, policies, and sustainable practices that move the needle within the industry.”
RETC and SolarPTL will work closely with all SolarPTL’s customers to diligently ensure enhanced services and seamless integration. Maintaining the highest level of support and reliability during this transition will be a priority. Existing customers can expect continued excellence in testing, certification, and customer service during this transition.
