New production concept enables large-scale custom application of solar film

Mass Customisation Line

The Mass Customisation Line has been developed to combine bespoke PV semi-finished products with a mass production volume to decrease costs. This research line can handle various PV-cell technologies and is prepared for the new perovskite cell technology. Thanks to this innovation, solar films and integrated PV solutions can soon be fully customised to meet the specific requirements of the construction sector.

This means solar energy can be easily and quickly integrated into building materials, façades, and roofs of both existing and new buildings. As a result, installation costs will drop significantly, and the energy transition will accelerate.

'Through the Mass Customisation Line, we demonstrate that the Netherlands and Europe can lead the way in producing innovative solar energy solutions. This offers tremendous opportunities for our manufacturing industry: from machine builders to construction companies and material producers. By investing in this technology together, we not only strengthen our competitive position but also create high-quality jobs in the region,' says Roland Valckenborg, Senior Project Manager at TNO Solar.

Unique Dutch technology

The production line for flexible perovskite solar laminates developed by TNO is also unique worldwide. Flexible laminates with solar power functionality can be produced in any conceivable variation of size, shape, and electrical capacity.

Perovskite is a highly promising thin-film material for solar energy. It offers advantages over traditional silicon: it is cheaper, more efficient, and the raw materials for its production are abundantly available.

Valckenborg continues: 'With this technology, we increase Europe’s strategic independence. Perovskite is a material that is widely available, reducing our reliance on critical raw materials from other parts of the world. This is essential for a competitive, sustainable, and resilient European PV industry.'