Discover the DLR–CSP-Synlight: the world’s largest solar simulator for concentrated light -

What if researchers could harness the intensity of concentrated sunlight at any time of the day, regardless of the weather? At DLR-CSP-Synlight in Jülich, Germany, this is exactly what they can do. Through RISEnergy, researchers can apply for free access to develop and validate technologies for concentrated solar power, green hydrogen production and other high-temperature applications.

What is DLR–CSP-Synlight?

Operated by the Institute of Future Fuels at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Synlight supports the development of solar-driven technologies. Its system of 149 controlled xenon lamps reproduces concentrated sunlight with adjustable radiation levels ranging from 50 kW/m² to 10 MW/m², enabling experiments that would otherwise depend on specific weather conditions.

The facility supports research throughout the entire technology development process, from fundamental laboratory studies to prototype validation and system integration. Thanks to its three independent test chambers, multiple experimental campaigns can be carried out simultaneously, while researchers can tailor light intensity, irradiation area and thermal conditions to meet the requirements of different technologies.

Synlight is used to advance research in areas including concentrated solar power, solar thermochemistry, green hydrogen production, high-temperature materials and concentrated photovoltaics.

What researchers typically walk away with

Researchers accessing the infrastructure through RISEnergy can:

Test solar reactors, materials and components under controlled concentrated sunlight
Validate new technologies before moving towards larger-scale demonstration
Investigate high-temperature processes for solar fuels and green hydrogen production
Collect detailed experimental data under precisely controlled irradiation conditions
Benefit from scientific and technical support throughout their research campaign

How access works through RISEnergy

Access to Synlight is provided through the Transnational Access (TA) programme of RISEnergy, which enables researchers to use world-class research infrastructures located outside their home country. The programme is open to both academic and industry researchers, at different career stages, whose main affiliation is in a country other than the one hosting the infrastructure.

Researchers apply with a project proposal and, if selected, benefit from:

Free access to the infrastructure and its services
Scientific and technical support from the hosting facility

Prepare and submit your proposal through the next RISEnergy Transnational Access call, opening in September 2026.

Explore more!

To help you assess whether Synlight is a fit for your research, explore additional materials:

RISEnergy also offers access to a wide range of research infrastructures supporting work in ocean energy, biofuels, concentrated solar power (CSP), energy storage, hydrogen, ICT, integrated grids, materials, photovoltaics and more. Explore the full RISEnergy research infrastructure catalogue: