Fraunhofer-Institut für Solare Energiesysteme ISE

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in Freiburg, Germany is the largest solar research institute in Europe. With a staff of about 1400, we are committed to promoting a sustainable, economic, secure and socially just energy supply system based on renewable energy sources. We contribute to this through our main research areas of energy provision, energy distribution, energy storage and energy utilization. Through outstanding research results, successful industrial projects, spin-off companies and global collaborations, we are shaping the sustainable transformation of the energy system.

In the business areas of Photovoltaics, Energy Efficient Buildings, Solar Thermal Power Plants and Industrial Processes, Hydrogen Technologies and Electrical Energy Storage as well as Power Electronics, Grids and Smart Systems, the Institute develops materials, components, systems and processes. For this purpose, we have an excellent laboratory infrastructure at our disposal. In addition, we perform analyses, carry out studies, provide consultations and offer our clients testing and certification procedures. Fraunhofer ISE is certified according to the quality management standard DIN EN ISO 9001:2015.

In the area of heat pumps, Fraunhofer ISE is working on several technological issues to advance materials, components and devices. The focus here is to further improve the ecological balance of heat pumps by reducing refrigerant charge and using natural or synthetic low-GWP refrigerants. The researchers at Fraunhofer ISE are also working on optimizing the control and sensor technology and safety concepts. In addition, the heat pump of the future should be able to optimize itself using artificial intelligence, we are working on technologies that enable the heat pump to automatically adapt to building performance and user behavior.

In addition to research and development services, the institute operates an accredited test laboratory for testing and certifying heat pumps and chillers. The TestLab Heat Pumps and Chillers offers the latest technology for the development, measurement and characterization of heat pumps and chillers and their components.

Further information: www.ise.fraunhofer.de/en