EIT InnoEnergy invests in revolutionary solar energy technology

Phytonics, a pioneer in the field of PV module coating, has successfully closed a seven-digit Seed funding round to develop anti-reflective coating for solar modules.

EIT InnoEnergy, the leading innovation engine for sustainable energy in Europe, participated in this round of investment, along with High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF), the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), and other business angels.

Phytonics' novel coating will enable up to 10% higher annual electrical energy yields

The coating is based on micro- and nanostructures which will boost efficiency in capturing and converting sunlight while making the modules glare-free. The glare-free guarantee opens up new areas for solar parks and installations, such as the surroundings of airports, motorways, and railway tracks, as well as urban locations where reflective solar modules are often unwelcome or even prohibited.

We are very pleased to receive this support in our mission to revolutionise the PV industry. This funding will allow us to advance our research and bring this breakthrough technology to market, expected by the end of 2023, to make solar energy a practical and efficient option for all.

Dr. Ruben Hünig, Co-CEO of Phytonics

The Phytonics anti-reflective film is the result of more than seven years of research and development. With its combined micro- and nanostructure, it replicates the epidermis of rose petals over a large area. It almost completely suppresses reflection for all wavelengths and angles of incidence of light. This makes it far superior to conventional anti-reflective coatings, leading to annual gains in electricity generation of up to ten percent for solar modules.

To compete with other world regions like China, Europe will have to play to its strengths and bring the most advanced PV products to market at industrial scale. Phytonics’ solution for anti-reflective coating is an excellent example of what that can practically look like. The technology has the potential to significantly increase the efficiency of solar modules and make them a preferred option for homes, businesses, and even large-scale power generation.

Christian Müller, Member of the Executive Board of EIT InnoEnergy and CEO for the DACH region

The expansion of the photovoltaic industry is urgently needed to meet climate targets. However, it is limited by problems such as glare from solar modules. That is why we are excited to support the KIT spin-off Phytonics in its unique solution for completely glare-free modules that also convert light into electricity much more efficiently.

Dr. Katharina Peters, Investment Manager at HTGF

Phytonics is a High-Tech spin-off of KIT. The bionic technology is based on several years of research work. KIT already supported the commercialization of the technology within the framework of funding projects of the Federal Ministry for Economics Affairs and Climate Protection. We are very pleased to now accompany the company’s growth together with the other investors of the Seed financing round.

Dr. Eric Braun, investment manager at KIT