Innovative solar cell technologies such as perovskite solar films and solar cells for space applications (Space PV) not only offer opportunities for sustainable energy generation, but also strengthen Europe's economic stability and geopolitical resilience. Thanks to a strong manufacturing industry and a robust knowledge infrastructure, the Netherlands can play a leading role in the development of such technologies.
Perovskite solar films are a promising technology that combines high energy efficiency with lightweight structures and flexible applications. The foils are cheaper to produce than traditional silicon solar panels and can be integrated in locations where conventional panels are not suitable, such as in buildings, vehicles or portable energy systems.
Tandem architectures and R2R manufacturing
An important development is the possibility of combining perovskite with other materials in tandem architectures. This significantly increases the efficiency of solar cells. In addition, roll-to-roll (R2R) manufacturing technology enables scalable and cost-effective manufacturing. This technology avoids direct competition with the mass market for silicon solar panels, which is currently dominated by countries such as China.
For large-scale application, however, reliability, stability and reproducibility are essential. This requires focused attention on material chains, lifetime testing, quality monitoring and standardised certification. TNO points to a strong ecosystem in the Netherlands for the development and validation of perovskite solar films, particularly at locations such as the High Tech Campus and Brainport Industries Campus in Eindhoven.
Space PV
The growing market for small satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO) is leading to an increasing demand for specialised solar cells that can withstand extreme space conditions. Europe is aiming for strategic autonomy in the space sector, with solar energy playing a crucial role for communication, sensing and Earth observation satellites.
According to TNO, the Netherlands has a unique position thanks to its combination of expertise in solar cell technology and space engineering. It points to organisations such as ESA and ESTEC in Noordwijk, through which the Netherlands can contribute to the development of high-performance, silicon-based solar cells that cannot be supplied by existing industry. This technology also opens up prospects for future applications. Think of space-based solar power (SBSP), in which solar energy is transported from space to earth.
According to TNO, the development of Space PV not only strengthens European autonomy, but also stimulates high-quality innovation with spillover effects to other sectors. These include terrestrial solar energy, vehicle-integrated PV and materials technology. By being involved at an early stage, the Netherlands can avoid future dependencies and build a structural knowledge and competitive position.
Strong manufacturing industry and knowledge infrastructure
According to TNO, the Netherlands has a unique combination of industrial and technological competences that are directly relevant for both perovskite solar films and Space PV. "The Dutch manufacturing industry excels in high-tech system development, precision equipment and industrial automation; essential prerequisites to realise Europe's ambition for scalable, reliable and strategically autonomous solar cell production," TNO reports.
In addition, the research organisation points to a robust ecosystem of specialised suppliers, knowledge institutions and test facilities, such as those at the High Tech Campus Eindhoven and Brainport Industries Campus. These locations act as innovation hubs, where new technologies are rapidly developed and validated. For Space PV, the available experience in space engineering and reliability under extreme conditions is also of great value. With the presence of ESA and ESTEC in Noordwijk, the Netherlands is attractive for high-tech research, qualification programmes and industrial upscaling.
Need for coherent policy framework
Accelerating the development of perovskite solar films and Space PV requires a coherent policy framework that integrates innovation, demonstration and industrialisation, according to TNO. Mission-driven research programmes should provide long-term roadmaps for application-oriented, scalable production processes.
TNO also cites an industrialisation agenda as necessary to facilitate the transition from pilot projects to large-scale production. Here, process control, metrology, data-driven optimisation and chain assurance play a central role. In the longer term, TNO calls European alignment of standards and regulation essential to ensure trust, interoperability and market access. Human capital is also a crucial factor. Targeted education, lifelong development programmes and field labs linking education, research and industry are needed to have sufficient qualified personnel available.
Strategic opportunity for the Netherlands and Europe
Perovskite solar films and Space PV together form a coherent strategy that enables the Netherlands to play a key role in Europe's energy transition and technological sovereignty. By investing in these innovations, the country can contribute to an independent, competitive and sustainable energy supply, while strengthening economic growth and geopolitical resilience.
With a strong starting position, an innovative ecosystem and a clear policy framework, the Netherlands can play a leading role in developing and scaling up these pioneering technologies. This not only benefits the national economy, but also contributes to a more resilient and self-sufficient Europe.
Roadmap
TNO also shares its roadmap for the coming years. In the period 2026-2027, the focus is on research and the definition of minimal viable products. For perovskite solar films, this means completing critical research on stability and encapsulation, while for Space PV, the qualification of first-generation products is central.
From 2028-2030, the focus shifts to scaling up, with both technologies moving towards pilot-to-fab trajectories within European certification frameworks. In the long term, the technologies can reinforce each other, leading to high-quality, ultra-efficient and stable products for the satellite and space energy market.
