Welcome to our second preview of the EU PVSEC plenary talks, which we want to continue with a glance at those scheduled for Wednesday. This is the morning of plenary talks, as we are preparing for a total of nine presentations covering the topics of:

Let’s start with the early morning talks, where we placed the latest information about Si-technology and its developments. We reflect the current market situation with our first keynote plenary which will be given by Guangtao Yang of Trina Solar, Changzhou, China. His talk, titled "Silicon Surface and Interface Study for >27% Efficient SHJ Solar Cell" will give insights into the current company strategy towards ever higher efficiencies in mass production.

To achieve such high efficiencies, the optimisation of surface morphology becomes an important parameter to study. Trina will report on an attempt to chemically polish the usual rear/front texturisation in order to flatten the pyramid surface. They find that adjusting the polishing parameters significantly impacts the wafer’s optical performance. The deposition of the amorphous Si layer to form the heterojunction leads to a better passivation quality, meaning a better Voc (of 752 mV).

Moreover, it seems that the p-type a-Si:H crystallisation behaviour is improved on these partially polished surfaces. With fill factors reaching 87%, and optimisation of the front/rear polishing parameters, Trina will certainly…

Plenary Summary by
Heinz Ossenbrink
Former European Commission Joint Research Centre

The European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition has been a cornerstone of solar energy history in Europe.

As the first conference of its kind in 1977, the EU PVSEC became the birthplace of numerous groundbreaking PV innovations. Over the decades, it has witnessed, and actively shaped, the rise, the hype and the challenges of photovoltaics in Europe.

Today, as the effects of climate change become increasingly tangible; debates over fossil fuels and nuclear energy resurface; and photovoltaics risk being sidelined in the energy debate, it is more important than ever for our community to unite. Together, we must send a strong message about the crucial role of renewable energies, photovoltaics in particular, in shaping a sustainable future.

The decline in funding for PV research signals a worrying shift in priorities. This is yet another reason why we must stand together and raise our voices, loudly enough that individuals, companies and governments in Europe and beyond not only hear us, but cannot ignore us. We must advocate for renewed funding, accelerate the development of renewable energies, and drive the energy transition forward.

Let us be loud together. Let us share ideas and innovations. Let us build a network of PV professionals so strong and visible that it cannot be overlooked, but must be heard.

We are all the EU PVSEC – come and be part of it.

Launched four years ago as a pre-event to the EU PVSEC, the PV Academy was created to offer a less technical approach to photovoltaics, focusing on fundamentals and broadening access to key PV topics.

Now in its 4th edition, the PV Academy has developed into a highlight event in its own right. With engaging and accessible lectures delivered by world-renowned PV experts, it brings together seasoned professionals, rising talents and newcomers alike for a full day of learning, exchange, lively debate and valuable networking.

This year’s programme features three inspiring sessions led by international PV experts: 

We know the EU PVSEC week is filled with exciting sessions and side events, but the PV Academy stands out with its unique atmosphere and youthful spirit.

Join us on Sunday 21 September at the BEC for a day that will set the tone for the EU PVSEC week. 

Another pre-event highlight and a premiere within the EU PVSEC framework is the workshop "EU Projects Proposal Writing: From Vision to Success", taking place on Sunday, 21 September at the BEC.

This workshop is designed for members of the PV community who are involved in project development and proposal writing. As many know, preparing a successful proposal requires careful attention to detail and an understanding of the fine lines that can make the difference between success and rejection.

Shaped by the needs of EU PVSEC participants, this workshop enriches the programme and offers meaningful value to many within the PV community.

In just three hours, you will strengthen your proposal writing skills and gain practical insights, and still have plenty of time to enjoy Bilbao, share dinner with colleagues and friends, and relax before the exciting EU PVSEC week begins.

We warmly encourage you to join us for this premiere workshop, and we look forward to welcoming you there.

There's still time to be a part of our conference programme by submitting a late abstract. 
Don’t miss this unique chance to showcase your innovative work to a global audience of leading experts in the field.

Submit your abstract today and shape the future of photovoltaics with us!

If you want to contribute to the EU PVSEC, there are many ways to do so: