Ongoing Research Project

In the Shirkan 2.0 project, matrix shingle technology will finally become competitive through targeted further development and consistent cost reduction. In addition a new, high-throughput matrix shingle stringer, a system for automated cross-connection and a product configurator for the efficient design of matrix shingle modules are being developed. Using anisotropic conductive adhesives, the shingling of highly efficient silicon heterojunction solar cells and completely lead-free matrix shingle modules that are variable in size and shape are also being researched. The aim is to use matrix shingle technology, a globally unique PV module innovation whose machine technology and application intelligence originate from Germany, to secure an innovative market segment for the German photovoltaic industry in the long term. | Duration: 08/2023 - 07/2026

The charging capacity of electric vehicles is constantly increasing. For this reason, charging stations on highways or in parking garages will have to deliver many times more power in the future and cannot simply be connected to the low-voltage grid as before. The project aims to develop a power-electronic medium-voltage system technology for electric charging stations and parking garages, thus contributing to the development and production of infrastructure components and the integration of electromobility into the energy system. The core of the development is a compact power electronic module with 2 kV SiC power semiconductors and an MF transformer with an output of 175 kW. | Duration: 07/2021 - 10/2024

The aim of the "PEP.IN" project, which is part of the H2Giga hydrogen flagship project, is to produce proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers competitively in large quantities. To this end, the partners are developing production technologies and processes that do not yet exist on the market in this form. The further developments and cost reductions in "PEP.IN" cover all stages of the value chain in the production of an electrolysis cell stack. | Duration: 05/2021 - 09/2025

Project in the Business Area: Energy Efficient Buildings, Topics: Heat Pumps, Low Temperature Solar Thermal, Duration: 12/2019 - 11/2024

The rooftop PV and BIPV systems recommended by the European Commission in the EU Solar Strategy are being used more and more frequently, which is why rules for their environmental impact assessment are considered necessary. However, the detailed life cycle analysis is currently not available and is therefore the subject of intensive research. For EPDs (type 3 eco-labels), neutrality and independent verification of in-depth environmental data are important criteria. Although PCRs for creating EPDs for PV modules and PV systems are already available, there is currently no such comprehensive PCR that leads to harmonized EPD results for PV modules as well as for PV rooftop and BIPV systems and at the same time enables standardized, both product- and use-specific assessments. | Duration: 06/2024 - 05/2026

This ICON collaboration plan aims at largely uncharted capabilities of free-space optical technologies which are an increasingly important pillar within a green digital revolution for our future sustainable and connected society. It will unlock the potential of energy-efficient ultra-high-speed wireless devices and fifth generation (5G) and sixth generation (6G) wireless optical communication systems. The University of Strathclyde’s LiFi Research and Development Centre (LRDC) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) partner to complement optical wireless communications with photonic power harvesting to facilitate green connectivity. | Duration: 03/2023 - 02/2026

Intelligent energy management in smart living and building environments can contribute to the energy transition, for example by increasing the use of renewable energies through controlled consumption or by providing flexibility potential for the system. The central objective of the »FAME4ME« research project is to investigate the potential applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in relation to future energy services for private end customers dealing with topics such as smart meters, energy management and time-variable electricity tariffs. The project is supported by the BMWK as part of the SmartLivingNEXT funding program. | Duration: 02/2024 - 07/2026

The "ReAktiv" project addresses a significant improvement in the recycling process for round cells and the processing of the active materials recovered from them without producing black mass. In addition, the recycling of the active materials into new battery cells is to be demonstrated. On the other hand, a process based on the black mass from button cells is currently undergoing revision and optimization, aiming to enable the recovery of the contained lithium metal as well. Round cells, which mainly come from production waste, are first dismantled and the anodes and cathodes they contain are separated by type. Once the active materials have been removed from the electrode foils, they are cleaned and, if necessary, processed in further steps. The properties of this recycled material should be comparable to virgin material, which will be demonstrated by the construction of new cells with a recycled content and their subsequent characterization. At the same time, the knowledge gained will be transferred to a battery cell model with the help of a hybrid model, so that at the end of the project a model for recycled cells will be available as a design aid. Fraunhofer ISE is preparing an economic and ecological assessment of the new process chain. | Duration: 07/2023 - 06/2026

At Fraunhofer ISE, together with our partners, we are revolutionizing building-integrated photovoltaic solutions across Europe and Switzerland. At the heart of this transformation is our Module-TEC, which features the cutting-edge Matrix Shingling pilot line. This facility is dedicated to the prototype production for forward-thinking companies aiming to elevate their products’ efficiency, shading resilience, and aesthetics. Join us in setting new industry standards and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable building technology. | Duration: 01/2024 - 11/2026

Currently, low-temperature PEM fuel cells, such as those used in mobility, require membranes that typically contain PFSA, a type of PFAS. The project “GIRAFFE” (Generic Investigation Regarding Alternative Fluorine-Free Electrolytes for Fuel Cells) will examine commercially available PFAS-free and low-PFAS materials, with a focus on hydrocarbon polymers. These materials are environmentally benign and could offer advantages in cost and functional merits. The aim is to evaluate the technology readiness level of these materials. | Duration: 01/2024 - 12/2027