elab is equipped with two 1200 sq. ft. laboratories dedicated to algae-biofuels and solar energy research.
The Sunlight Utilization & Optimization Laboratory is equipped with multiple fiber-optic-based sunlight collection systems capable of distributing 200,000 lumens of visible sunlight (photosynthetically-active radiation) to 5 lab-scale photobioreactor workstations. The sunlight distribution system (with resulting chromaticity values and color temperatures that are near indistinguishable from that of direct, non-diffuse sunlight) provides a unique and versatile setting for sunlight utilization experiments. Each workstation is dedicated to differing photobioreactor design approaches for both bio-film and suspended solution reactor types. Associated research tools, monitoring equipment, and measurement systems are provided to track various physical and biological parameters in the reactors in real-time.
In addition to these experimental tools, the lab is equipped with a PC-based sunlight utilization modeling system with optical ray-tracing capabilities.
By combining this analytic tool with project-specific algae templates and reactor physical layouts, the system is capable of predicting sunlight utilization in numerous open / hybrid / closed reactors - providing spatial maps of sunlight utilization.
In addition to these tools, USU has developed a techno-economic model from which to understand and assess various algal-based system architectures and business models from an economic viability perspective.
The lab is also doubling as a platform for developing multifunctional solar energy systems capable of meeting multiple building end-use needs (interior lighting, electricity generation, radiant heating of occupants, and point-of-use water heating.
The Algae Characterization Laboratory is equipped with equipment to study the growth rate of specific strains relative to optimal gases, light penetration in liquid culture and light intensity.
The facility contains for cell harvest, spectrometers, and cold storage (refrigeration, freezer and -80oC deep freezer). Additional labs are equipped with light trays for solid media growth, controlled environment (refrigerated) lighted incubation chambers, as well as intensive light growth shaker tables. Multiple mid-scale growth (5 liter) setups with controlled gas delivery are utilized for initial growth characterization to determine total cell and oil yields. The analytical facilities include a dedicated gas chromatograph with both flame ionization and mass spectrometry capabilities for identification and quantification of various oils. This instrument is capable of resolving all components of the oil fraction (phytols, fatty acids, hydrocarbons and triacylglycerides). This laboratory also contains two hoods with dedicated extraction apparatuses for solvent and mechanical extraction methods and a laboratory grade microwave for rapid conversion of lab scale oils to biodiesel. In addition, a gas chromatograph with associated thermal conductivity probe is available for characterization of headspace gases (including oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide). These facilities are fully-functional and ready for use with minimal time required for experiment setup and methods development. Oil analysis and quantization is ongoing for a number of candidate strains.
USU Energy Lab currently owns and operates a 5000 gallon raceway pond that is covered by a greenhouse. The covered pond is located such that it receives unobstructed solar radiation throughout the year. The greenhouse is equipped with temperature control options to maintain favorable growth temperatures through cold weather periods in the Spring and Fall. The pond became operational in July 2008 with the inoculation of Neochloris oleoabundans. 
Initial results indicate that the strain has sustained growth over a period of 2 weeks under non-sterile conditions while growing on a minimal growth solution comprising of mineral salts supplemented with phosphorus and inorganic nitrogen. The biomass yield obtained in this first run is ~0.3g/L. Tests are currently underway to evaluate growth rates and lipid content. Future tests planned include continuous operation and growth of other microalgae including Dunaliella sp. and Chaetoceros sp.
Additional labs are being instrumented for research on anticipatory building end-use energy systems and hybrid electric transportation in 2008.