With its millimeter thickness, the Belgian company EnFoil has created something that could be the future of solar energy. These panels are not only as thin as a sheet of paper, they are also flexible and lightweight. Think carefully before you say that this is just a beautiful piece of technology to admire: these panels are poised to change the way we power our world.
One millimeter from the future
EnFoil's ultra-thin solar panels open up new possibilities for the use of solar cells on surfaces where traditional solar cells were unsuitable. Surfaces including truck roofs, for example. In the past, solar cells for truck roofs (as for buildings) came in standard formats, often flat and fixed in size.
EnFoil's solar cells come in various shapes and sizes, offering much greater flexibility in installation – they can even cover corrugated roof tiles, or pool covers. And despite their slim design, they're extremely durable.
The technology behind a "solar sheet"
Second Innovation Origins, EnFoil's solar panels are based on CIGS technology. CIGS is an abbreviation for the four elements used to make the panels: Copper (Copper), Indio, Gallium and Shelenium. This combination of elements makes the panels foldable and light as a sheet but really sturdy. Thin-film solar cells are also more resistant to shocks, making them a reliable and sustainable option.
Il European Research Council recognized the potential of EnFoil's solar panels and awarded them €150.000 in funding. The University of Hasselt will use the funding to hire a researcher for further product development. This funding underscores industry experts' confidence in EnFoil's innovative solar panel technology. All that remains is to see them in production and in action: the future, apparently, can arrive even one millimeter at a time.
