Excursion: Fraunhofer-Institut für Solare Energiesysteme

On October 7, 2025, the excursion group visited the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in Freiburg. The morning began at the main site on Heidenhofstraße with a welcome by Dr. Martin Heinrich, head of the “Encapsulation and Integration” group in the Module Technology division. He introduced the institute’s research areas, including photovoltaics, energy-efficient building, industrial processes, and power electronics.
This was followed by a presentation by Giorgi Tsutskiridze, research associate at Fraunhofer ISE and master’s student at Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design Halle. His lecture covered the technological and physical fundamentals, historical developments, and political as well as economic frameworks of photovoltaics. He explained the production process of solar cells — from quartz sand purification and silicon extraction to finished wafers — and discussed current challenges such as high silver consumption and sustainability issues. He also presented concepts of integrated photovoltaics, for example in buildings, vehicles, or noise barriers.
Later in the morning, the participants gained insights into projects such as the solar cycle path and the MorphoColor technology, which enables aesthetically appealing and color-variable PV modules through special coatings. It was particularly exciting to experience the research facilities and ongoing projects up close. After lunch in the institute’s cafeteria, the group continued to the Haid site. There, topics such as half-cell and shingle matrix technologies, infrared testing, and recycling processes were in focus. A highlight was the guided tour through the production areas, where the students laminated a small test module themselves.
The day offered a comprehensive insight into current developments and challenges in photovoltaic research and illustrated the Fraunhofer ISE’s role as a leading research institution in this field.