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The Solar Power Systems Department performs research and development related to utility-scale solar parks, floating solar systems, and integration of solar solutions in the Nordic area. We work in close collaboration with Norwegian and international partners to support the development and implementation of various solar power technologies.
To accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy system, renewable power needs to expand significantly. As a consequence, solar power plants are anticipated to make up the largest share of power production capacity within the next two decades. Norwegian energy companies are currently involved in several fields related to solar power systems, ranging from utility-scale solar parks to building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV).
Our activities at the department are divided into three main areas. Within utility-scale solar parks, we focus on how to achieve cost-efficient plants by utilizing digital tools in order to study various aspects that influence the performance of the plants. Within floating photovoltaics (FPV), we perform research related to the development of individual FPV technologies, focusing especially on performance and reliability in both real working conditions and in the lab. We also have significant activity related to the integration of solar energy in the Nordics, with a special focus on building-integrated photovoltaics and how colder climates and snowfall influence the power production from solar plants.
IFE is the host of the FME center SuSolTech. The center has been in operation for over 10 years and has been a significant contributor to Norwegian growth in solar power.