Pioneering Facade-Integrated Organic Photovoltaics with Heliatek’s Solar Films
Facade-Integrated Organic Photovoltaics at EStW
Members of the Solar TAP Industry Network Erlanger Stadtwerke (EStW) and Heliatek have jointly installed nearly 100 organic photovoltaic (OPV) modules on the metal facades of the EStW building. These flexible, adhesive-backed solar films were applied directly to the building surfaces simplifying installation and demonstrating the potential of OPV technology in urban environments.
EStW and Heliatek connected through Solar TAP and initiated this collaboration. HI ERN, a leading institute in PV performance evaluation using infrared imaging and drone-based inspection, is now monitoring the installation’s performance as part of Solar TAP’s initiative to help both partners optimize the technology.
This collaboration aims to not only assess real-world performance but also drive improvements in Heliatek’s OPV products.
Image of the HeliaSol solar films installed on the metal facades of EStW’s buildings. (Copyright: Kurt Fuchs/HI ERN)
See the OPV Installation in Action!
This video takes you behind the scenes of this pioneering solar project: the installation of facade-integrated organic photovoltaics at EStW.
Nearly 100 modules were applied directly to the metal facades of EStW buildings demonstrating the potential of OPV for urban environments.
Project details
Key Achievements
- Efficient installation: The self-adhesive OPV modules were installed on two building facades in just three days.
- First IEC-Certified OPV: Heliatek’s OPV modules are the first to receive IEC certification, proving their reliability.
- Solar TAP enabled collaboration: EStW and Heliatek met through the Solar TAP network, highlighting its role in fostering innovation.
- Performance monitoring by HI ERN: HI ERN is using advanced infrared imaging and drone-based inspections to assess the long-term efficiency of the installation, helping to refine Heliatek’s OPV technology.
Linking Science and Industry
This project exemplifies the synergy between technological innovation and practical application. Heliatek’s development of flexible, adhesive-backed OPV modules aligns with EStW’s mission to integrate sustainable energy solutions into urban infrastructure.
The partnership was initiated through the Solar TAP network demonstrating its success in connecting industry players to drive forward new applications. HI ERN’s expertise in PV performance monitoring is providing valuable data on real-world OPV performance, helping to improve product design and efficiency.
Future Outlook
Building on this successful installation EStW plans to explore further applications of OPV technology across its facilities. The project serves as a model for other urban utility providers considering sustainable energy solutions. Through continued collaboration with Solar TAP and Heliatek, HIERN will refine its monitoring techniques, contributing to broader renewable energy adoption and product optimization.
Updated Performance Insights from 2024–2025 Monitoring
Recent high-resolution monitoring data from 2024–2025 confirm the stable performance of the OPV facade at ESTW. Seasonal variations between the slightly east- and west-oriented strings reach up to ±5%, yet the annual energy yield of both strings remains nearly identical. Imaging diagnostics, such as IR, EL, UV fluorescence and NIR, show homogeneous module behavior without indications of degradation.
These findings underline the reliability of modern OPV technology and its suitability for architecturally integrated facade applications.
Installation of organic photovoltaic modules modules on the EStW-Facade by industrial climbers. (Copyright Kurt Fuchs/HI ERN)
Added Value
for the Industrial Partner
- Demonstration of Heliatek’s OPV technology in an operational urban setting.
- Real-world validation and monitoring of performance of emerging PV-installations.
- Strengthened partnerships within the Solar TAP network, enabling future collaborations.
- Insights from HI ERN’s performance monitoring to refine OPV product design.
for Research
- Collection of long-term performance data on facade-integrated OPV modules.
- Opportunity to refine and improve PV performance evaluation techniques.
- Strengthened collaboration between HI ERN and industry partners for future research projects.
- Data-driven optimization of next-generation OPV modules.
for Society
- Promotion of sustainable energy practices in urban environments.
- Increased awareness of innovative renewable energy technologies.
- Contribution to reducing carbon emissions through clean energy generation.
- Support for the transition to integrated, aesthetically pleasing PV solutions.
