Testing at Scale
Validating technologies and strengthening energy system resilience through large-scale testing.
Testing Technologies in Real-World Conditions
Idaho National Laboratory provides test environments where industry partners, researchers, and government agencies can evaluate energy technologies at scale, under realistic conditions.
INL testbeds can help stakeholders:
- Evaluate performance under various operating conditions
- Identify risks before deployment
- Ensure secure & resilient system design
Critical Infrastructure Test Range Complex (CITRC)
CITRC is a test environment for grid technologies that includes transmission and distribution systems built to industry standards. Learn more on how to use CITRC to test new technology performance, identify vulnerabilities, and reduce implementation risks.
Wireless Security Test Range
The Wireless Security Test Range assesses wireless technologies used in critical infrastructure. INL supports new equipment design, testing, vulnerability analysis, and the development of operational procedures across multiple private and public (e.g., 5G) networks.
Grid Storage Test Bed
The Grid Storage Test Bed enables experimentation & control of energy storage systems and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. With its flexible control platforms, users can test strategies to better manage distributed storage resources and integrate emerging technologies.
Testing Capabilities
INL’s testing environments provide infrastructure-scale capabilities that enable researchers and industry partners to evaluate technologies and operational strategies under realistic conditions. These platforms support performance validation, identification of vulnerabilities, and informed deployment across modern energy systems.
Power Infrastructure Testing
- Transmission and distribution systems capable of testing up to 345 kV
- Industry-standard substations for full-scale testing
- Transmission and distribution line testing environments
Communications & Wireless Environments
- Dedicated fiber-optic communications networks
- 2G–5G wireless coverage supporting telecommunications testing
- Controlled environments for evaluating wireless equipment and security
Flexible Testing Platforms
- Realistic environmental and hazard scenarios
- Configurable test setups with on-site equipment
- Energy storage and EV charging test platforms
DOE-CESER Liberty Eclipse Program
Liberty Eclipse is a full-scale annual cybersecurity exercise that brings together federal partners, operational technology (OT) specialists, and cybersecurity experts from across the energy sector. Conducted in realistic, infrastructure-scale environments, the program provides a collaborative setting for organizations to engage with complex cyber scenarios and operational challenges.
Participants outcomes:
- Hands-on experience responding to cyber incidents in operational energy environments
- Validation of security strategies, plans, and procedures
- Collaboration with federal partners and energy sector peers
- Exposure to emerging threats and evolving response approaches