FuturePV workshop
bifa lecture on the eco-design of innovative photovoltaic modules
bifa was represented at the FuturePV Workshop on 20–22 May 2025 at the University of Cyprus (Nicosia, Cyprus). At this joint event, which brought together 15 current European funding projects, over 70 experts from across Europe discussed how perovskite PV technology can be scaled up, made more durable and more sustainable.
Dr Matthias Hämmer from bifa presented the initial findings from the SMARTLINE PV project in his presentation entitled ‘Eco-design guidelines for tin-based perovskite PV modules’. The European Union-funded research project is further developing perovskite photovoltaic technology. It is developing a solar cell technology based on tin perovskite as an alternative to potentially environmentally hazardous lead-containing perovskite photovoltaic modules. In addition, the focus is on efficient roll-to-roll (R2R) manufacturing, reduced costs and flexible modules with selectable colours. Under the leadership of bifa, the project is implementing eco-design down to the solar cell level and in all product components, including design for recycling.
With this goal in mind, bifa has developed specific ‘Ecodesign Guidelines’, which Dr Hämmer presented to a wider audience of experts at the FuturePV Workshop. The proposals include the substitution of critical materials, reduction of material complexity, the use of ‘greener’ solvents and recycling-friendly encapsulation materials.
