Project FOURIER: a key step for building-integrated photovoltaics

The conclusion of the FOURIER Project represents a milestone in the field of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), marking a crucial step forward in the global transition to sustainable energy. With the increasing need for eco-friendly solutions, this initiative aims to revolutionize the way we think about energy generation in urban environments, bringing us closer to the goal of a cleaner, greener future.

Selected in September 2021 as the winning proposal in the CSEA (Cassa per i Servizi Energetici e Ambientali) call for projects, FOURIER united an exceptional consortium of industry leaders and research experts. The collaborative effort has focused on developing high-efficiency photovoltaic cells designed specifically for integration into building facades, merging advanced technology with aesthetic design and large-scale applicability.

One of the project’s most remarkable aspects is the creation of a completely Italian supply chain, a unique feature that sets FOURIER apart. Involved in this cutting-edge initiative are key players such as Camlin Italy (Henesis' office), Focchi Group, Applied Materials Italia, IMEM-CNR, Eurac Research, and GruppoSTG, forming a synergistic ecosystem of excellence that spans across various sectors, including technology, engineering, and scientific research.

Through the collaboration of these innovative partners, FOURIER has introduced a number of breakthrough technologies. Notably, the development of photovoltaic ink, which enables the transformation of glass surfaces into semi-transparent solar panels, represents a significant step forward in BIPV applications. Additionally, the use of shingling technology offers an efficient and seamless way to integrate solar power generation into building facades, ensuring both functional and aesthetic value. Another exciting innovation is that the tandem photovoltaic modules are designed not only for BIPV but also for applications in the automotive industry, opening new possibilities for solar energy in diverse fields.

With the completion of the initial project phase, the next steps for FOURIER focus on optimizing the energy efficiency of the photovoltaic materials, scaling up production, and refining the performance of the energy systems. Key objectives include enhancing photovoltaic integration into different types of buildings and expanding their applications across various markets.

The FOURIER Project is more than just a technological advancement; it is the beginning of a new era for smart buildings. In the near future, the facades of buildings will not only serve as protective structures but will also function as energy-generating surfaces, playing a central role in the global push for sustainable energy solutions.