5th Solar TAP Industry Day

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5th Solar TAP Industry Day Unites Research and Industry in Berlin

On May 21, the 5th Solar TAP Industry Day brought together leading minds from industry, academia, and innovation at the Center for the Science of Materials Berlin (CSMB) – a central institute of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin — to shape the future of printed and hybrid PV technologies in Europe. The full-day event, organized in collaboration with Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB), focused on how emerging PV technologies and flexible manufacturing approaches can meet growing industrial demand and contribute to a resilient European energy transition.

5th Solar TAP Industry Day unites research and industry in Berlin @copyright by Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

From Research Results to Real-World Implementation

The day started with a platform update by Dr. Jens Hauch (Solar TAP Manager) and steering committee member Prof. Eva Unger who provided insights into current transfer projects and the platform’s expanding industry network.

Eva Unger (Solar TAP Steering Committee) and Jens Hauch (Solar TAP Manager) welcomed partners from industry and academia @copyright by Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

In his keynote, Prof. Rutger Schlatmann (HZB) addressed the strategic reshoring of the PV value chain in Europe. He called for close coordination between politics, research, and industry to strengthen Europe’s technological and economic resilience.

Prof. Rutger Schlatmann (HZB) addresses the strategic reshoring of the PV value chain in Europe @copyright by Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

The agenda featured a wide range of success stories and technological spotlights — from green solvent-based processing to next-generation tandem devices (CIGS/Perovskite and Si/Perovskite). Several project teams presented their approaches to scalable module design and shared learnings from lab-to-fab transitions.

Roadmap Dialogue, Funding Insights, and Lab Access

During the event, Solar TAP presented the first consolidated version of its Strategic R&D Roadmap, developed through co-creation workshops with industry and research partners. It defines milestone-based goals for key applications such as Agri-PV, BIPV, Mobility-PV, and IoT-PV, along with prioritized R&D actions for 2027, 2030, and 2035. The roadmap provides a shared foundation to guide future collaborations, funding activities, and technology transfer across the Solar TAP community.

Strategic R&D Roadmap @copyright by Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

In the subsequent Funding Dialogue, Robert Reim (HZB) gave an overview of current support schemes for PV innovation, ranging from national ZIM programs to European cooperation opportunities. These sessions were deepened in World Café discussions, where participants shared experiences and explored collaborations on roadmap implementation and cross-sector use cases.

Jens Hauch (Solar TAP, left) interviews Robert Reim (HZB, right) about current support schemes for PV innovation @copyright Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

Guided tours through HZB’s HySprint lab, PVComB, KOALA station, and IRIS Adlershof offered first-hand impressions of advanced Solar TAP infrastructure.

Demonstration of flexible OPV at the Solar TAP booth @copyright Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

Networking and Cross-Platform Collaboration

The event concluded with a networking dinner in Berlin-Adlershof, followed the next day by a Joint Workshop with the Hi-Acts Innovation Platform at Bessy, strengthening the cross-platform dialogue on accelerator-based analytics and functional materials.

Through initiatives like the Solar TAP Industry Day, the network continues to enable strategic dialogue and innovation transfer, providing a platform where industry and research meet to tackle real-world challenges in solar energy and printed electronics.

Pascal Friederich Receives Manfred-Fuchs-Prize 2025

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Pascal Friederich Wins Manfred-Fuchs-Prize 2025 for Groundbreaking Work in AI-Driven Solar Materials.

Dr. Pascal Friederich, Tenure-Track Professor at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), has been awarded the prestigious Manfred-Fuchs-Prize 2025 by the Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities. The €10,000 prize honors his pioneering contributions to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in developing novel chemical materials, with a particular focus on solar energy applications.

As Principal Investigator of the Solar TAP project, Friederich leads an interdisciplinary research group at KIT that combines computer science and materials science to accelerate the discovery of next-generation solar cell materials. His team brings this expertise into the Solar TAP digital twin, simulating materials at the atomic scale, integrating existing knowledge and extensive materials databases, as well as machine learning techniques to predict promising material candidates and simulate their properties with high accuracy.

Pascal Friederich in the SCC (Steinbuch Centre for Computing) next to the “Hochleistungsrechner Karlsruhe” – HoreKa for short @ copyright by Bramsiepe, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

Within Solar TAP, Friederich collaborates closely with researchers from the Institute of Microstructure Technology to design efficient and sustainable photovoltaic technologies. This data-driven approach lays the foundation for a new era of digital materials development—faster, more efficient, and resource-conscious.

The jury recognized not only the innovative bridge Friederich builds between informatics and the natural sciences but also the high relevance of his research for solving key societal challenges, such as climate protection and the global energy transition.

Solar TAP Featured in Textile Technology Source

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Solar TAP is making waves at the LOPEC 2025 in the world of smart textiles, as highlighted in the latest issue of Textile Technology Source.

As a cutting-edge technology acceleration platform, Solar TAP is transforming the way energy is harnessed by integrating emerging photovoltaic innovations—particularly organic photovoltaics and perovskites—into real-world applications.

An efficient, flexible photovoltaic at the Solar TAP booth at LOPEC 2025. Photo: Messe Munich.
An efficient, flexible photovoltaic at the Solar TAP booth at LOPEC 2025. Photo: Messe Munich.

Born from the Helmholtz Institute Erlangen-Nürnberg for Renewable Energy, Solar TAP is dedicated to bridging the gap between research and industry. Our pioneering “lab-to-fab” approach ensures that solar technology moves seamlessly from the laboratory to scalable, commercial applications. At the heart of this transformation is our solar factory, a state-of-the-art research facility that fosters industry collaboration and accelerates innovation.

Printing flexible photovoltaic at the Solar Factory of the Future. Photo: Kurt Fuchs.

Our advanced printed thin-film PVs offer a game-changing solution: lightweight, flexible, and available in various colors to seamlessly integrate into diverse market applications, from fashion and outdoor gear to high-tech industrial uses.

This recognition in Textile Technology Source underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Read the full article here.

Solar TAP at PV Symposium in Bad Staffelstein

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Solar TAP exhibits at the 40. PV Symposium in Bad Staffelstein

Our team had the pleasure of exhibiting at the PV Symposium at Kloster Banz—Germany’s key industry forum for discussing the latest advancements in photovoltaic technology, manufacturing and applications. With our Solar TAP (Technology Acceleration Platform for emerging photovoltaics) booth, we engaged with industry experts on emerging PV-technology and developing integrated solar solutions for multi-benefit PV.

A particular highlight was the presentation of our pioneering project ANYMO: A New Way of Analyzing Polymers in PV Modules, supported by the Innovation Go initiative from the Jülicher Innovationsfonds at Forschungszentrum Jülich. The project introduces a non-destructive method for analyzing polymers within solar modules—paving the way for improved performance and durability.

Solar TAP shows their pioneering project ANYMO: A New Way of Analyzing Polymers in PV Modules © copyright by Forschungszentrum Jülich

There were a number of valuable exchanges and new contacts made during the Symposium. Solar TAP continues to accelerate innovation in photovoltaics, and events like the PV-Symposium help us stay connected to industry.

We congratulate Conexio-PSE for organizing such a successful event!

Meet us at Booth: FOE.17.

Solar TAP Shines at LOPEC 2025: A Resounding Success

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Solar TAP’s participation at LOPEC 2025 was a resounding success, drawing a significant number of visitors to our booth in the ICM Foyer.

At LOPEC 2025, Solar TAP demonstrated its leadership in the evolving landscape of photovoltaics, aligning perfectly with the conference’s focus on the latest trends and innovations in the printed electronics sector. Our participation was marked by significant achievements and substantial visitor engagement at our booth in the ICM Foyer.

Our dedicated team—Hauch Jens, Alexander Colsmann, Michael Wagner, Stefanie Ditze, and Wolfgang Mildner—were on hand at Booth FO.17, unveiling Solar TAP’s latest advancements. These innovations underscore our commitment to sustainable technology, which resonates with LOPEC’s emphasis on environmental sustainability and advanced electronic solutions.

A key event at our booth was the Solar TAP: Roadmap Validation Workshop for Industry and Science, held on February 27th from 16:00 to 18:00 in Room 4. This workshop brought together experts from science and industry to collaboratively shape the Solar TAP roadmap. The focus was on harmonizing and accelerating R&D actions across unique applications in agriculture, construction, IoT, and transportation. Participants worked to validate R&D priorities and define project opportunities for emerging photovoltaic applications, fostering collaboration and innovation.

The workshop was an essential platform for building connections and validating the strategic direction of our initiatives, in line with industry needs and advancements. Participants were encouraged to bring forward their ideas and needs, helping to propel emerging PV technologies towards significant breakthroughs.

We are grateful for the lively interactions and the enthusiastic response from all the attendees. The connections made at LOPEC 2025 are invaluable, and they pave the way for future collaborations and breakthroughs in the solar technology space.

Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and participated in our events. Your engagement and feedback are what drive us forward. Together, we are steering towards a more sustainable and innovative future, inspired by the pioneering spirit of LOPEC 2025.

HZB showcases building-integrated PV Innovations at Inolope Expo 2025

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Three exciting days at Inolope Expo 2025 are behind us.

From February 12 to 14, 2025, the inaugural Inolope Expo took place in Dortmund—an exhibition dedicated to innovative building envelopes and cutting-edge façade technologies. Held alongside the established elektrotechnik trade fair for building, energy, and industrial systems, the event attracted a diverse and expert audience, particularly interested in photovoltaics and the future of sustainable building design.

As a key partner of Solar TAP (Technology Acceleration Platform), the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) was proud to represent the platform with its Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) division. At their booth, visitors experienced hands-on demonstrations of solar façades and solar roof tiles at full scale—capturing the attention of over 360 engaged professionals throughout the three-day event.

HZB showcases building-Integrated PV Innovations © copyright by HZB/Baip

These conversations highlighted both the potential and challenges of integrating photovoltaics into architecture. HZB’s team actively addressed misconceptions, shared practical knowledge, and advised visitors on the benefits and applications of BIPV technologies—an essential focus area within Solar TAP’s mission.

In addition to the exhibition, HZB contributed to the Inolope Expert Forum, offering insights into legal frameworks, simulation tools, and findings from ongoing real-world BIPV projects.

HZB contributes to the Inolope Expert Forum, offering insights into legal frameworks, simulation tools, and findings from ongoing real-world BIPV projects © copyright by HZB/Baip

 
The strong presence of Solar TAP at Inolope Expo 2025 marked a successful step forward in advancing integrated photovoltaic solutions and promoting a more sustainable built environment.

3rd Backsheet Workshop at HI ERN Brings Experts Together in Erlangen

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HI ERN Welcomes Experts to Erlangen for the 3rd Backsheet Workshop.

The 3rd Backsheet Workshop, held from January 30–31, 2025, at HI ERN in Erlangen, brought together leading voices from research and industry to discuss the latest advances in photovoltaic backsheet materials. Prof. Christoph Brabec, Director at HI ERN and member of the Solar TAP Steering Committee, Dr. Jens Hauch, Solar TAP Manager, and Dr. Claudia Buerhop, Head of the Outdoor Group at HIERN, opened officially the workshop, setting the stage for two days of engaging presentations and discussions.

A strong emphasis was placed on polymers and glass as key components for long-term PV performance and durability. A highlight was the talk by Christian Camus (LayTec), industry partner in the Solar TAP project, who presented innovative approaches to polymer testing in PV manufacturing, demonstrating how industrial AI and in-line analytics are driving quality and reliability.

3rd Backsheet Workshop at HI ERN Brings Experts Together in Erlangen @copyright by Helmholtz-Institut Erlangen-Nürnberg

Another standout was the live demonstration of BOM identification by the pre-seed startup ANYMO from HI ERN/Forschungszentrum Jülich utilizing NIR spectroscopy, showcasing next-generation tools for fast and precise material analysis.

Many thanks to all who contributed to this inspiring and forward-looking event!

SCIPRIOS Wins Bavarian Innovation Award 2024

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SCIPRIOS Receives Bavarian Innovation Award 2024 for Groundbreaking Work at the Intersection of Science and Industry.

Congratulations to our Solar TAP Network Member SCIPRIOS GmbH: The Fürth-based high-tech company has been awarded the Bavarian Innovation Award 2024 in the category “Cooperation between Industry and Science”. The award recognizes SCIPRIOS’s advanced automation systems, which are used in cutting-edge materials research and are accelerating the development of clean energy technologies.

SCIPRIOS’s innovations—ranging from precision measurement devices and lab robots to pilot production systems—enable key advancements in materials science. According to the award jury, these technologies not only push the frontiers of research, but also support global sustainability goals by fostering the development of core energy transition technologies such as photovoltaics, fuel cells, and batteries.

A notable highlight of SCIPRIOS’s portfolio is the Spincoating Robot system, developed using licensed technology from Forschungszentrum Jülich and the Helmholtz Institute Erlangen-Nürnberg for Renewable Energies (HI ERN). This innovation has further strengthened the company’s role in the Solar TAP initiative, where it contributes to scaling up printed photovoltaics from lab to industry.

SCIPRIOS Wins Bavarian Innovation Award 2024 for Groundbreaking Work at the Intersection of Science and Industry @ copyright by IHK München/Andreas Gebert

Founded in 2018 as a spin-off of FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and HI ERN by Dr. Tobias Stubhan, SCIPRIOS has built strong ties with academic institutions in the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region to test and refine its technologies. The company previously won the IHK Start-Up Award of Middle Franconia in 2023.

Well-deserved recognition for a team that bridges science and industry to power a sustainable future!

Panel Presentation at the Symposium

2nd Helmholtz Innovation Platform Status Symposium

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On November 21, 2024, the Solar TAP team had the opportunity to participate in the 2nd Helmholtz Innovation Platform Status Symposium, which took place at the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research in Kiel. This was an important event that brought together the three innovation platforms: Hi-Acts, SOOP and Solar TAP. These platforms, founded in 2023, aim to promote innovation and facilitate knowledge transfer within the Helmholtz Association, one of Europe’s largest scientific organizations.

Dr. Jens Hauch showcases an innovative solar solution to a visitor during the exhibition session of the symposium.
Dr. Stefanie Ditze highlights flexible OPV modules designed for innovative applications in photovoltaics.
A visitor examines a curved photovoltaic material at the SolarTAP exhibition booth.
Symposium participants discuss SolarTAP’s initiatives and technologies with team members.
SolarTAP presents insights into the use of solar energy for agriculture, focusing on innovations like OPV foil tunnels.
Prof. Dr. Christoph Brabec elaborates on the transfer of solar technology from Helmholtz research to industrial applications.
SolarTAP Presentation on Emerging Technologies
SolarTAP’s exhibition booth showcasing a variety of photovoltaic materials and information panels.
A presenter introduces SolarTAP’s solar technology acceleration platform at the symposium.
Group photo of SolarTAP team and partners at their exhibition booth during the Helmholtz Innovation Platforms Status Symposium.

The symposium featured a packed agenda with presentations from each platform highlighting the significant progress made over the past year. For Solar TAP, this was an excellent platform to showcase our latest research developments and strategic initiatives to advance the solar energy sector. The presentation was enriched by our industry partners who provided insights into best practices and innovative approaches to technology transfer.

In addition to the presentations, the symposium also offered interesting exhibitions where participants could learn about the work of the three platforms and exchange ideas.

Looking forward, 2025 will be an important year for Solar TAP as we evaluate our platform and prepare for future expansion and impact in the field of solar innovation.

Solar TAP Showcases Printed Photovoltaics at glasstec 2024 in Düsseldorf

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Solar TAP highlighted its innovative approach at glasstec 2024 in Düsseldorf.

From October 22 to 25, 2024, Solar TAP made a strong impression at glasstec 2024 in Düsseldorf, the world’s leading trade fair for the glass industry. The initiative presented its innovative approach to integrating glass as a key enabler in advancing solar energy applications—especially in the field of photovoltaics.

As part of the Helmholtz Association, Solar TAP brings together the expertise of Forschungszentrum Jülich, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. The platform’s mission is to accelerate the deployment of next-generation solar technologies by promoting Multi Benefit Photovoltaics—solutions that serve dual purposes beyond energy generation.

At glasstec, Solar TAP highlighted how emerging printed solar cell technologies, including organic photovoltaics (OPV) and perovskite solar cells, can be seamlessly embedded into everyday environments. These flexible, lightweight modules open new possibilities for solar integration in agriculture (Agrivoltaics), building facades (BiPV), and transportation (MobilityPV).

Solar TAP Showcases Printed Photovoltaics at glasstec 2024 in Düsseldorf @ copyright by Helmholtz-Institut Erlangen-Nürnberg

Through strategic collaboration with a wide network of industrial partners, Solar TAP drives the development and commercialization of these technologies across the entire value chain—from lab-scale research to industrial-scale manufacturing (“lab-to-fab”). The goal: to fast-track market readiness and foster broad adoption of sustainable, multifunctional solar solutions.

The exhibition at glasstec 2024 underscored the pivotal role of glass as not only a protective layer but a functional and aesthetic component in the solar revolution.