Industrial processes and equipment for innovative, reliable and scalable tandem technologies (EUPI-PV Partnership)

The EU-funded innovation action “Industrial processes and equipment for innovative, reliable and scalable tandem technologies” supports companies, educational institutions, public bodies, and non-profit organizations within the EU and associated countries. With funding of up to €9.5 million, a funding rate of 70%, and a project duration starting from 04.08.2027, research and innovation are promoted to demonstrate novel tandem photovoltaic technologies with efficiencies beyond the silicon limit at industrial readiness and to realize them at large scale. A consortium of at least three independent partners based in different EU Member States or Associated Countries is required. Eligible costs include personnel expenses, material and travel costs, as well as subcontracting services. Ineligible are real estate investments, retroactive costs, and debt coverage. Projects must be submitted by no later than 01.12.2027 and must present a practical exploitation plan including a business case and dissemination strategy. Evaluation criteria include the level of innovation, contribution to EU solar targets, economic potential, and exploitation plan.

The target group primarily comprises SMEs and research institutions along the European PV value chain aiming to develop industrial processes, interfaces, and large-scale thin-film engineering techniques for tandem cells. The measure also supports the EU Solar PV Industry Alliance and the implementation of the Solar Energy Research and Innovation Roadmap. The funding guideline requires gender equality within the consortium team, gender mainstreaming in research, and inclusive access to project implementation. Applicants must provide the application form, project description, financial plan, and CVs of key personnel. Upon positive evaluation, contract preparation follows, succeeded by interim and final reports. Innovative and reliable tandem technologies are thus intended to be rapidly integrated into industrial production lines and significantly advance PV expansion in Europe.