Netherlands Leads Solar Innovation with Perovskite Advances
Amsterdam, Friday, 7 November 2025.
The Netherlands is pioneering sustainable solar technology by utilizing perovskite materials in multi-layer panels and thin films, aiming to integrate them into everyday structures like windows and roads.
Pioneering Perovskite Technologies
The Netherlands is at the forefront of solar innovation with its groundbreaking use of perovskite materials, a mineral known for its ability to absorb sunlight effectively, in the development of advanced solar technologies. Leading research institutes such as TNO and AMOLF, alongside companies like MCPV and Solarge, are central to these developments, focusing on tandem solar panels and roll-to-roll solar cell foils [1]. These technologies are designed to enhance the efficiency and flexibility of solar energy systems, making them suitable for integration into urban infrastructure such as windows and road surfaces [2].
Government Support and Industry Challenges
In 2023, the Dutch government invested €135 million into the SolarNL consortium from the National Growth Fund to bolster local solar industry capabilities [1]. Despite this initial investment, the government has since decided against a further €277 million in subsidies, citing challenges in establishing large-scale production within the country [3]. This decision reflects broader European struggles to compete with China’s dominance in solar panel manufacturing, which currently accounts for 90% of global production [4].
Innovations in Solar Panel Efficiency
Remarkable progress has been made in improving solar panel efficiency. TNO has achieved a notable laboratory efficiency of 30.1% for a multi-layer solar panel that uses a perovskite top layer combined with a traditional silicon bottom layer [1]. This advancement is part of the Helios project, which involves AMOLF, DIFFER, and CWI, utilizing artificial intelligence to optimize material selection and composition for these advanced solar cells [5].
Future Prospects and Market Expansion
Despite financial constraints, Dutch companies are optimistic about the future of perovskite solar technologies. LiftPV, a successor to the bankrupt HyET Solar, is focusing on perovskite technology, which, while financially challenging, offers a competitive edge over traditional glass panels from China [6]. The BOM and related companies are actively seeking market opportunities and are planning to establish a demonstration factory by the end of 2026 [1]. This forward-looking approach aims to position the Netherlands as a leader in high-quality solar technology production, capable of meeting European market demands.