Institut für Solarenergieforschung GmbH (ISFH)

Institut für Solarenergieforschung GmbH (ISFH) is Lower Saxony's leading institute for solar energy research and development, promoting applied research in photovoltaics and solar energy for over 30 years. Located in Emmerthal near Hameln, Germany, ISFH operates as an affiliated institute of the prestigious Leibniz University Hannover. The institute conducts cutting-edge research combining material science, cell and module technology, quality assurance, and manufacturing engineering to enable highly efficient, cost-effective, and resource-saving photovoltaic production. ISFH's research activities are organized into three specialized departments: Photovoltaics, focusing on developing silicon solar cells with over 24% efficiency and advanced tandem solar cell technologies; Solar Energy Systems, developing integrated energy solutions for buildings and settlements including thermal solar collectors, heat pumps, and storage concepts; and CalTeC (Calibration and Test Center), providing independent and accredited calibration services for silicon solar cells and solar absorber evaluation. The institute operates four research buildings with 7,500 m² of usable space on a 32,000 m² campus, featuring state-of-the-art laboratories and experimental facilities. ISFH's innovative research extends to building-integrated solar thermal and photovoltaic systems, developing functional, aesthetic, and efficient solutions for facades, roofs, and emerging energy applications. With governance structures including a 9-member Supervisory Board and a 15-member Scientific Advisory Board comprising representatives from universities, ministries, and industry, ISFH maintains strong collaborative relationships with academic institutions and commercial partners. The institute's mission focuses on translating fundamental research into practical applications that advance Germany's renewable energy transition and contribute to global sustainable energy solutions.