Solar system components have undergone considerable analysis and evaluation through various efforts such as the Saguaro and Solar 100 design programs and the experimental work conducted by Sandia National Laboratories. While the foregoing work has established the feasibility of molten salt solar plant design, further prototypical testing is necessary prior to the construction of large scale plants. Work is under way on a program to demonstrate the viability of the receiver design, the operation of full size hot and cold salt pumps, and the operability of major salt valves for a commercial solar plant. The molten Salt Subsystem/Component Experiment, described herein, has been structured to minimize the major technical risks. A review of the technical uncertainties, and an overview of the test program and the project team organization are presented.