Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, ISE

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in Freiburg is the largest solar research institute in Europe. Our approximately 1400 employees work towards a sustainable, economic, secure, and socially just energy supply system based on renewable energies. We contribute to this goal through our research focuses on energy generation, distribution, storage, and utilization. With outstanding research results, successful industrial projects, company spin-out, and global collaborations, we shape the sustainable transformation of the energy system.

Fraunhofer ISE is equipped with a unique suite of high-throughput tools, enabling the manufacturing of highly efficient solar cells and modules at a pre-industrial scale. This positions us as the ideal baseline and production hub for the development and prototyping of building-integrated modules within the SPHINX initiative. Our facilities serve as a focal point for advancing this field. Engaging in the SPHINX project provides us with the opportunity to revolutionize the application of photovoltaics in European and Swiss buildings. The introduction of Matrix Shingle Technology at public demonstrator sites is a transformative step. Collaborating partners have the advantage of developing and realizing their products within our facilities, leveraging the expertise of our professionals to gain valuable insights and experience. The data generated through these collaborative efforts contributes to optimizing the costs, reliability, and ecological footprint of our partners’ products, fostering sustainable and efficient solutions. Through these endeavors, Fraunhofer ISE plays a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of photovoltaics in Europe and Switzerland.

Fraunhofer ISE is backing the SPHINX project by setting up a pilot line for Matrix Shingle Technology for Europe and Switzerland. This platform allows industry partners to develop and test their building-integrated products. We are refining the production of matrix shingle modules. This involves incorporating passivated edge technology, conducting inline quality inspections at different production stages, performing life cycle assessments for products, and providing support with ongoing product monitoring. In essence, our goal is to make Matrix Shingle Technology efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly for building integration.