Production technologies for solar photovoltaics beyond the state-of-the-art (EUPI-PV Partnership)

Overview

Funding for advanced production technologies in solar photovoltaics (PV) to accelerate commercialization of next-generation cells and modules, targeting manufacturers, research institutions, and consortia aiming to scale up EU-based PV manufacturing capacity.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., businesses, research organizations, universities) from eligible countries, including EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries, and select third countries with specific funding provisions.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €43,000,000
• Funding rate: Not specified (standard Horizon Europe rules apply)
• Total budget: Not specified

What Is Funded

• Development and demonstration of solar cells/modules with conversion efficiencies beyond commercially available technologies
• Multi-MWp-ready, resilient, energy-efficient, and defect-free production technologies for cells/modules
• Production equipment and pilot lines, including digitalized and automated processing
• Exploitation and dissemination strategies, including business plans for scalability, commercialization, and deployment

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 7–9 (system prototype demonstration in operational environment to actual system proven in operational environment)

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-12-02
• Deadline: 2027-03-30

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal
• Standard Horizon Europe application forms and evaluation criteria apply

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland
• Application language: English

Notes

• Projects must align with the EU Solar Energy Strategy and Net-Zero Industry Act, contributing to the EU’s 30 GW annual solar PV manufacturing capacity target by 2030.
• Exploitation plans must include preliminary strategies for scalability, commercialization, and potential funding sources (e.g., Innovation Fund).
• Use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data/services is mandatory if satellite-based earth observation or navigation is involved.
• Results must be reported to the European Partnership for Innovation in Photovoltaics (EUPI-PV) for KPI monitoring.