About Fraunhofer ISE
Fraunhofer ISE: Pioneering Solar Energy Research in Europe
Fraunhofer ISE is the largest research institute for solar energy in Europe, dedicated to conducting cutting-edge research and development in the fields of photovoltaics, solar thermal energy, building energy technology, hydrogen technologies, and energy system technology. The institute is located in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany and has been at the forefront of renewable energy research for over 30 years.
The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) was founded in 1981 as a non-profit organization with a mission to develop sustainable solutions for global energy challenges. Since then, it has grown into one of the world's leading institutes for applied research on solar technologies. With over 1200 employees from more than 60 countries working across various departments and laboratories, Fraunhofer ISE is committed to advancing renewable energies through innovative research projects.
Research Areas
Photovoltaics: Fraunhofer ISE's photovoltaic department focuses on developing new materials and processes that can improve the efficiency of solar cells while reducing their production costs. The team works on both silicon-based and thin-film technologies to create high-performance modules that can be integrated into buildings or used as standalone systems.
Solar Thermal Energy: The institute's solar thermal department conducts research on advanced collector designs that can capture more sunlight while minimizing heat loss. They also work on developing new storage systems that can store heat generated by solar collectors during peak hours for later use when needed.
Building Energy Technology: Fraunhofer ISE's building energy technology department focuses on improving the overall efficiency of buildings by integrating renewable energies into their design. They work closely with architects and engineers to develop innovative solutions such as smart facades or hybrid ventilation systems that reduce heating/cooling loads while increasing indoor comfort levels.
Hydrogen Technologies: Hydrogen is seen as a key component of future sustainable transportation systems due to its high-energy density and zero-emission properties. Fraunhofer ISE's hydrogen technologies department works on developing efficient methods for producing hydrogen from renewable sources such as wind or solar power.
Energy System Technology: This department focuses on integrating different types of renewable energies into existing power grids while ensuring grid stability and reliability. They also work closely with policymakers to develop strategies that promote the adoption of renewables at scale.
Impact
Fraunhofer ISE has made significant contributions towards advancing sustainable energy solutions globally through its groundbreaking research projects. Some notable achievements include:
- Developing highly efficient silicon-based photovoltaic cells with an efficiency rate exceeding 25%
- Creating a record-breaking perovskite/silicon tandem cell with an efficiency rate exceeding 30%
- Developing advanced collector designs capable of capturing up to 95% sunlight
- Designing smart facades capable of generating electricity while providing shading
- Developing innovative storage solutions such as phase-change materials (PCMs) capable of storing heat generated by solar collectors
- Conducting extensive studies on grid integration issues related to renewables
Conclusion
In conclusion, Fraunhofer ISE is a pioneering institution dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions through cutting-edge research projects focused primarily around photovoltaics, solar thermal energy, building energy technology, hydrogen technologies &energy system technology . With its highly skilled workforce comprising experts from diverse backgrounds working together towards common goals ,the institute continues making significant contributions towards achieving global sustainability targets .
ise.fraunhofer.de
