Solar Energy Programme

Solar energy technologies directly convert sunlight into electricity and heat or power chemical reactions that convert simple molecules into synthetic chemicals and fuels. The sun is by far the most abundant source of energy and a sustainable society will need to rely on solar energy as one of its major energy sources.

The Solar Energy Programme carries out research on future generations of photovoltaic technologies (PV) and in particular polymer solar cells. In addition, we look into other means of utilizing sunlight; take an example to reduce carbon dioxide to synthetic fuels. We work from a firm base in organic chemistry, polymer materials science & technology, and structure characterization with a special focus on advanced polymer materials, where structure and chemistry impose an added functionality.

We are working on promoting innovation and growth; educates researchers; keep up-to-date with new technical possibilities in our area for the benefit of Danish industry; and with industry commissioned work. Risø DTU collaborates with DTU BYG, who is specialized in solar heating technologies.

The programme also conducts research in biopolymers – plastics from sustainable source. We aim both at ways of deriving polymers from biomass as well as optimizing their properties, i.e. for packaging.

Our publications

Student projects

Head of Programme: Peter Sommer-Larsen