photovoltaic research

The Institute for Photovoltaic Research (IPVF) in Île-de-France is dedicated to advancing photovoltaic technologies through collaborative research and innovation. With a focus on sustainability, IPVF connects scientific excellence with industry needs, driving forward the energy transition. Their work supports the development of cutting-edge solar technologies, contributing to a low-carbon future and addressing global energy challenges.

IPVF: Advancing Photovoltaic Research and Innovation for a Sustainable Future

What is IPVF?

IPVF stands for the Institute for Photovoltaic Research in Île-de-France. With the motto “Excellence in Science for Industry,” IPVF pushes the limits of photovoltaics and catalyzes innovation. There is a constant energy in the work done at IPVF, where the power of the collaborative ecosystem is celebrated – a true haven for cutting-edge research, development, and training initiatives that drive the photovoltaic industry forward. This institute, rooted in deep scientific research yet openly connected to industry demand, champions the development of energy transition technologies with top scientific talents and tools.

Main Benefit

The benefits of IPVF’s ecosystem are multifold:

  • Research: Discover the latest advances in photovoltaic research and witness breakthrough innovations.
  • Enable: Evaluate the potential of innovative photovoltaic projects and see them scaled up – a true boost for industry partners.
  • Platform: Access a state-of-the-art R&D platform with cutting-edge testing means and infrastructure.
  • Global Trust: Recognized by industry giants like Air Liquide, CNRS, École Polytechnique, EDF, Orange, and TotalEnergies.
  • One-Stop Shop: A Saclay-based platform covering deeptech research and innovation services across perovskites, III-V, tandem cells, BIPV, VIPV, agrivoltaics, IoT, and hydrogen.

Innovation and Collaboration

Innovation is a core driver at IPVF. The institute has built an environment where interdisciplinary sharing is essential – a place where breakthrough innovations happen, and every idea carries the potential to reshape energy transition. A collaborative spirit and transparency fuel the everyday work, as various teams come together, pooling a diverse set of skills. With research that challenges conventional boundaries and a collaborative approach that permeates every project, IPVF creates an atmosphere that is both dynamic and inclusive… paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries.

Excellence and Agility

Excellence at IPVF is not just a pursuit of high-quality results – it is in every detail of its operation. The institute places high value on a team spirit, where honesty, transparency, and openness create an environment where excellence blooms. Agility is equally prized: as the institute faces a variety of robust objectives ranging from safety to industrial transfer, challenges are met with enthusiasm and determination. This agile approach enables IPVF to adapt quickly, ensuring that research programs and platform operations remain at the forefront of scientific and technological advancements.

Catalyzing Energy Transition

IPVF’s mission goes beyond the walls of its Saclay-based platform. As an innovator in the field of perovskite solar and other thin film technologies, its work is crucial for tomorrow’s photovoltaic industry. Every project, from research and innovative pilot efforts to full-scale industrial evaluations, serves as a catalyst for the broader energy transition. There is a genuine passion for contributing to a low-carbon future, where every experiment and every collaboration adds momentum to the global movement toward sustainable energy solutions… that energy is not just transmitted through solar cells but through the collective drive to protect the environment.

Project Impact and SDGs

  • Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7) – By enhancing photovoltaic technologies, the project supports the global shift toward renewable energy sources.
  • Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9) – Excellence in research and the development of cutting-edge platforms promotes sustainable industrial growth.
  • Climate Action (SDG 13) – The commitment to energy transition and reducing carbon emissions aligns directly with urgent climate goals.
  • Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) – Fostering innovation and the growth of highly qualified teams contributes to broad economic benefits.

Next Steps in Photovoltaic Research

At the heart of the institute’s operations lies a clear focus on continuous research and capacity building. The journey is marked by pioneering projects like the 17th International Summit on Organic and Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cell Stability held in Paris-Saclay from September 21-23, 2026. This summit highlights the institute’s dedication to both academic excellence and practical breakthroughs. By constantly harnessing new ideas and sustainable practices, IPVF supports its partners in evaluating, refining, and scaling solar technologies. Each facet of the institute—from its robust research program to its comprehensive platform services—outlines a future where the photovoltaic industry can meet the increasingly complex challenges of energy transition. This dynamic landscape is driven by an engine of innovation that does not stop at merely producing scientific outputs but moves forward, embracing every opportunity to translate scientific findings into real-world sustainable energy solutions… ensuring that the pulse of technological innovation beats strong in every collaborative effort.

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