Origin
The University of the Philippines Solar Laboratory (UPSL) was established in 1989, to serve as a testing facility for the evaluation of the performance of solar photovoltaic and thermal systems in the Philippines.

Since its inception, UPSL has continuously developed its expertise in many fields of renewable energy and has consistently advocated sustainable development and the judicious utilization of energy resources through the implementation of its projects and programs.

The UP Solar Laboratory is laying the foundations for the establishment of a National New and Renewable Energy Center that will ensure the steady stream of manpower and infrastructure needed to maintain the country's technological growth, to sustain the effective management and utilization of energy resources and to promote awareness on energy and environmental issues.

With the guidance and assistance from the Philippine Department of Energy, the National Engineering Center, and the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering of the University of the Philippines, the UPSL research staff continues to develop and improve renewable energy technologies and advance related sciences. UPSL is also working with utilities, government and non-government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector to ensure the dissemination and utilization of renewable energy technologies in the country.

Management
The UP Solar Laboratory is directly managed by the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering and the National Engineering Center of the University of the Philippines. In addition, the Laboratory serves as a technical arm of the of the Non-Conventional Energy Division (NCED) of the Philippine Department of Energy.