Subsequent to our 2009 report, the University of Central Florida directed the Florida Solar Energy Center to reduce its testing and certification backlog. The center analyzed its testing process for barriers and made several improvements, including increasing the number of test stands and automating test data collection. These changes reduced test times from 227 to 129 days, a 43% decrease. The center also transferred some of the backlog to other laboratories. As a result, the backlog was eliminated and the laboratory capacity increased.
In addition, the university directed the center to reduce its reliance on state funds for testing and certification services. The center significantly increased testing fees and used other funds such as additional contract and grant funds from the Solar Rating & Certification Corporation to cover costs. The amount of state funds used to pay for testing decreased from $256,255 in Fiscal Year 2007-08 to $77,931 in Fiscal Year 2010-11, a 70% reduction.

No Title
Report 09-17
Increased Accountability and Oversight of University Centers and Institutes Is Needed
Report 10-41 May 2010
Supplemental Report: Profiles of Selected University Centers and Institutes
Report 07-36 August 2007
University Centers and Institutes Report Many Benefits; the Oversight Process Needs to Be Strengthened
Report 07-35 August 2007

Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.