Ongoing Research Project

Innovative manufacturing technologies, e.g. for large-area displays, enable the cost-effective production of units consisting of thousands of interconnected semiconductor devices by miniaturization, additive manufacturing, parallelization and self-alignment. The objective of the "micro-CPV" joint project is to develop a concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) module based on these technologies. This shall enable high PV performance while at the same time exploiting cost reduction potentials in production. | Duration: 04/2020 - 12/2024

In the project, technically, economically and architecturally advantageous basic or standard solutions to solarize the building envelope are developed and made available digitally. The solutions are made available to all interested parties. | Duration: 01/2023 - 12/2025

At Fraunhofer ISE, together with our partners, we are transforming building-integrated photovoltaic solutions across the EU 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

Small and medium-sized existing district heating networks are largely supplied by fossil gas-fired combined heat and power (CHP) plants. The upcoming transformation of the generation sites to heat pump-based systems is associated with major challenges. On the one hand, significantly lower CO2 emissions are to be generated, and on the other hand, there will be changes in the supplied heating networks due to renovation, redensification and the connection of new areas. The »TrafoWärmeNetz« project provides support here with know-how by building up and bundling technical and planning knowledge across all service phases in accordance with the Fee Structure for Architects and Engineers (HOAI) in one tool. This enables a systematic and standardized conversion process with consistent comparability of individual projects. | Duration: 01/2024 - 12/2026

Concentrating solar collectors are a key technology for the heating transition. Studies show that they can also make a significant contribution to the heat supply in Germany as a cost-efficient replacement for fossil fuels. They deliver high yields at temperatures well above 100°C (Figure 1). Concentrating solar technologies open up a viable pillar for renewable heat supply in Germany. The ProSolNetz project contributes to the dissemination of knowledge about the diverse application possibilities of concentrating solar thermal energy, also in combination with other renewable energy technologies. Municipal and system planners are provided with tools that enable rapid market introduction. | Duration: 05/2024 - 04/2027

Business Area: Hydrogen Technologies; Research Topic: Electrolysis and Hydrogen Infrastructure; Duration: 07/2022 - 03/2025

PV systems after the EEG subsidy: A new phase begins. When the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) came into force in 2000, it laid the foundations for the expansion of photovoltaics in Germany. The law established attractive remuneration rates for solar power, triggering the first significant wave of PV installations. In our service are, particularly between 2004 to 2008, numerous systems were built that could be operated economically due to the EEG subsidies. Today, nearly 20 years later, the first of these systems are no longer eligible for statutory subsidies. For many other operators, the end of EEG remuneration is approaching in the coming years. This transition marks the beginning of a new phase for the utilisation of solar power – binging both new challenges and new opportunities. | Duration: 10/2024 - 03/2027

85% of the European building stock was built before 2001 and does not meet low-energy standards.In order to achieve the necessary climate targets by 2050, Europe must accelerate the renovation wave! For the building envelope, four different renovation concepts are being developed in the project using the example of demonstration buildings, which are tailored to the needs of different building types, climate zones, social classes and user preferences. They can be scaled up and adapted to new or existing buildings throughout Europe. | Duration: 10/2022 - 09/2026

How economically viable is solar thermal process heat in Germany? What role do investment grants from the EEW funding program play, and what is the economic viability compared to fossil fuel heat production? These questions were the focus of our study on the decarbonization of industrial heat through solar thermal process heat. Various collector technologies, temperature ranges and locations were evaluated using dynamic simulations and detailed cost models. The results show under which conditions solar thermal energy can already today provide a competitive and climate-friendly alternative to conventional heat generation. | Duration: 07/2024 - 12/2024

Project in the Business Area: Power Electronics, Grids and Smart Systems; Topic: Smart Grids; Duration: 06/2023 - 05/2026