In this episode of Earthlings 2.0, we speak with Cherif Kedir, President and CEO of the Renewable Energy Test Center (RETC), about what it takes to ensure solar panels can perform reliably for decades in the field. Cherif discusses RETC’s PV Module Index (PVMI) and Thresher Test, how solar testing has evolved as technologies and operating environments have changed, and the role third-party validation plays in building confidence across the industry. The conversation also explores advances in solar module efficiency, the potential of perovskite solar cells, and how testing must continue to evolve as manufacturers introduce new materials and designs.