Scientists develop aesthetic solar facades with 80% PV efficiency

German researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Electron Beam and Plasma Technology (FEP) have developed aesthetically appealing solar facade modules that achieve up to 80% of the efficiency of conventional photovoltaic (PV) panels. Utilizing roll-to-roll nanoimprint lithography (NIL), a process that stamps microscopic decorative patterns onto films continuously and cost-effectively, these solar modules can seamlessly integrate into building facades without compromising energy performance. The decorative films are visually indistinguishable from traditional metal facade panels, addressing a major barrier to the adoption of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) by architects and builders. A key technical advancement involved improving adhesion of the decorative films to both PV glass and metal elements through a nanoscale plasma treatment of the ETFE film substrate, ensuring durability for long-term use. This innovation supports Germany’s climate neutrality goal by unlocking additional renewable energy potential on vertical building surfaces, which are often underutilized. The Design-PV project, funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry for