Press / Newsroom

Dr. Jasna Jankovic, Associate Professor at the Institute of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Connecticut, has been awarded the Fraunhofer Bessel Research Award by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. She was nominated for the award by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, where she will be working as a visiting scientist from December 1. The focus of the joint research work is the development of advanced ex-situ characterization methods for state-of-the-art, innovative fuel cell and electrolyser materials.

Dr. Robin Lang was distinguished with the Best Oral Presentation Award at the 35th International Photovoltaic Science and Engineering Conference (PVSEC-35) in Japan for his outstanding scientific presentation in the field of III-V solar cells. In his presentation, the researcher from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in Freiburg presented his research results and provided a detailed loss analysis of the production of a III-V multi-junction solar cell.

The Institute of Psychology at the University of Freiburg and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE conducted a joint study on the social acceptance of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). The conclusions showed that the acceptance of integrated photovoltaics in urban areas is generally very high and that PV on modern buildings is viewed more positively than on historic buildings. The study also showed, however, that when PV modules are colored to match the building's roof or façade so that they are practically invisible, then the social acceptance is increased to the point where no difference is detected between the different building types.

A new study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE shows potential technological transformation paths towards climate neutrality by 2045 at the state level in Germany. The cross-sectoral energy system model "REMod" was used to quantify cost-optimized development paths for the energy, transport, industry and building sectors - including their necessary infrastructures. A variety of possible scenarios were considered. The study confirms the central role of electrification in a cost-efficient transformation, yet also the supplementary role of hydrogen for the industry, transport sector and power plants. The results indicate that a significant grid expansion is needed to transport electricity and hydrogen from northern Germany to the main consumption centers in western and southern Germany. In an energy system based largely on renewable energy, both energy generation and energy consumption must be made more flexible.

His Royal Highness, The Grand Duke of Luxembourg visited the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE on November 8, 2024. Along with a delegation consisting of politicians and scientists, he was interested to hear about research into integrated photovoltaics and hydrogen technology. The delegation included Stéphanie Obertin, Luxembourg’s Minister for Digitization and Minister for Higher Education and Research, and Her Excellency, Sylvie Lucas, Luxembourg’s Ambassador to Germany.