Silvana Ovaitt

Dr. Silvana Ovaitt is a Researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), where she focuses on bifacial photovoltaic (PV) technology within the Performance and Reliability group. Her work integrates optical and electrical performance modeling, energy simulations, and reliability assessments for advanced solar systems.

Academic Qualifications:

• PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering (University of Arizona)
• MS in Optics (University of Arizona)
• MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering (University of Arizona)
• Certificate in College Teaching (University of Arizona)
• MS in Creative Writing (University of Texas at El Paso)
• BS in Mechatronics (Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey)

Her research spans bifacial PV technology, field performance metrics, and circular economy principles in solar energy. Recent publications address agrivoltaic land use, perovskite sustainability pathways, and open-source solar modeling tools like System Advisor Model (SAM). Key collaborations include the International Energy Agency Task 13 and the Photovoltaic Quality Assurance Task Force.

Scientific Awards:

• Quantum Energy and Sustainable Solar Technologies Engineering Research Center Outstanding Outreach Award (2017)
• University of Arizona Ren Future Leaders Fellowship (2016)
• World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion Graduate Student Assistant Award (2018)

Dr. Ovaitt has organized workshops, served as NREL Ambassador, and contributed to diversity initiatives through the Hispanic Latino Alliance Employee Resource Group. She edited the Solar Outreach Handbook (2018) and co-authored over 100 research outputs.