The event opens with an inspiring programme that reflects the evolving role of photovoltaics at the heart of the energy transition. As solar power continues to become one of the world's fastest-growing energy sources, this year's Opening Session explores not only the latest technological breakthroughs but also the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating unprecedented amounts of PV into modern energy systems. Bringing together leading scientists, industry representatives, policymakers and energy stakeholders, the session sets the stage for a week of discussions on innovation, collaboration and the future of solar energy.

The plenary session, "PV in the Energy System", will examine the key developments shaping the next phase of photovoltaics, including large-scale grid integration, flexibility enablers, digitalisation, the growing interplay between artificial intelligence and PV, and the development of smart, resilient and intelligent energy systems.
 

The programme continues with the presentation of the Alexandre Edmond Becquerel Prize, recognising Dr. Delfina Muñoz for her outstanding contribution to the advancement of photovoltaics and Europe's solar sector.
 

The session will follow with contributions from Prof. Wilfried van Sark (University of Utrecht), General Chair of EU PVSEC 2026, Jon de Gregorio (WIP) Conference Director, and a representative of the City of Rotterdam, setting the scene for a week of scientific exchange and international collaboration. Together with contributions from leading figures across the photovoltaic and energy landscape, these presentations will provide valuable perspectives on PV research trends, the evolving role of photovoltaics, the priorities shaping the sector, and the importance of continued cooperation in accelerating the energy transition.  

An impulse keynote by Prof. Dr. Peter Palensky on the topic will then introduce a high-level panel discussion entitled "Grid Congestion Management: Enabling the Next Phase of Solar PV Growth – The Dutch Perspective." Bringing together leading representatives from research, government, transmission and distribution system operators, and the Dutch solar industry, the panel will explore practical strategies to address one of the most pressing challenges facing the large-scale deployment of photovoltaics and discuss how flexibility, digital technologies and cross-sector collaboration can unlock the next phase of solar growth.
 

The EU PVSEC Panel Discussions bring together internationally recognised experts from industry, research, policymaking and the energy sector to discuss the most relevant developments shaping the future of photovoltaics. Through an interactive format that encourages dialogue and audience participation, these sessions provide strategic insights and diverse perspectives on today's key challenges and opportunities.

The 2026 Panel Discussions explore some of the most pressing questions facing the global PV sector, from grid congestion and the integration of ever-growing shares of solar power into modern energy systems, to the geographical diversification of PV manufacturing and resilient supply chains. They also examine the future of next-generation technologies such as perovskites, as well as the expected role of floating photovoltaics in the upcoming years.