SPHINX – Sustainable Photovoltaics Integration in Buildings and Infrastructure

Duration: 11/2023 - 10/2026
Contracting Authority/ Sponsors: Funded by the European Union
Project Partners: Voltec Solar, Etway, Heliup, M10 Industries AG, Uniresearch BV, Icares Consulting, Bequerel Institute France, Comissariat A L Energie Atomique Et Aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Freesuns SA, Centre Suisse D'eletronique Et De Microtechnique SA (CSEM), Ecole Polytechnique Federale De Lausanne (EPFL), Soprema
Website: sphinxproject.eu
Project Focus:   
Detailansicht eines verschattungsresilienten Solarzellenmoduls in einer Matrixanordnung. Die Solarzellen sind nahtlos zu einem Netzwerk verbunden, wodurch ein einheitliches und ansprechendes Design entsteht. Dank dieser speziellen Anordnung kann der Stromfluss um Bereiche mit Schatten oder Defekten herumgeleitet werden.
Detailed view of a shadow-resistant solar cell module in a matrix arrangement. The solar cells are seamlessly connected to form a network, creating a uniform and attractive design. Thanks to this special arrangement, current flows can be directed around areas with shadows or defects, minimizing energy loss.
Die Firma M10 und das Fraunhofer ISE haben gemeinsam eine Anlage für die Verschaltung von Matrix-Schindelmodulen entwickelt. Ein Roboterarm ordnet die Schindelzellen in einer Matrix an und bereitet sie für den Klebeprozess vor.
© M10 Industries AG
The company M10 and Fraunhofer ISE have jointly developed a system for interconnecting cells in matrix shingle modules. A robot arm arranges the shingle cells in a matrix and prepares them for the bonding process.

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.

Europe is on a mission to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, and achieving this ambitious goal demands groundbreaking solutions. Enter the SPHINX project: our goal is to make solar energy, the most affordable energy source, a staple in modern construction. We’re developing cutting-edge photovoltaic products designed to seamlessly integrate into buildings while being resource-efficient, beautiful, and multi-functional.

Here’s what SPHINX is bringing to the table:

  • Custom Solutions for Unique Needs: From lightweight rooftop modules for buildings that can't handle heavy loads, to stylish tiles designed for historical buildings and dynamic facades, SPHINX covers all bases. We're also pioneering semi-transparent modules perfect for carports and innovative noise barriers.
  • Advanced Technology for Superior Performance: Our products are not just about good looks; they pack a punch with high energy output and low degradation. Thanks to matrix shingling—a revolutionary European technology—we're boosting power output by 3% and tripling energy yield in partial shade conditions, all while cutting down on resource use like lead and copper.
  • Eco-friendly Innovations: We're enhancing our solar modules with smart features like UV selective absorption which boosts power, and IR reflective coatings that keep panels cool and efficient. Our anti-glare and anti-fouling coatings not only preserve the environment but also keep the modules looking great and performing well, long-term.

Each of our innovations will be put to the test in five diverse construction settings across Europe, ensuring they meet the highest standards of efficiency and environmental sustainability. Join us as we redefine the integration of photovoltaics into the built environment, making a cleaner, greener future a reality.

More Information on this Topic:

Research Topic

Interconnection and Encapsulation Technologies

Business Area

Photovoltaics – Production Technology and Transfer

Sustainable Development Goals

The »SPHINX« research project contributes to achieving the sustainability goals in these areas: