The EU PVSEC is the largest international conference dealing with research, applications and technologies in the field of photovoltaics. From September 6 to 10, the already 38th edition of the European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference took place as an online event.

The scientific program included, on the one hand, varied panel discussions and exciting scientific sessions. Topics ranged from concepts, materials, cells and modules, to applications, systems, strategies and market developments in the photovoltaic sector. These program items aimed to provide knowledge about the current and future direction of photovoltaics, whose crucial role in a sustainable, integrated energy system is increasingly being recognized.

Best Poster Awards

In addition, prizes were also awarded to honor outstanding papers from the global photovoltaic community. Within the framework of the EU PVSEC Poster Awards, high-quality contributions that combine novelty and outstanding scientific content in their presentation aim to be promoted and additionally recognized. A total of 16 presenters were awarded, one from each visual session. One of the winners is Lukas Neumaier, Senior Scientist in the Research Unit Sensor Applications. With his poster titled "Improved eddy-current probe for non-destructive characterization of electrical contacts in PV modules", Lukas emerged as the winner in the category "Photovoltaic Modules and BoS Components".

In his work, he presents an improved eddy-current based analysis method for testing electrical contacts and solder joints in PV modules. The concept proofed that a fast, non-destructive (contactless) and portable characterization without powering a PV module is feasible. Hence, it has the potential to be used as handheld, contact free inspection system for O&M applications on site, as well as an industrial tool for quality control and process monitoring directly inside of the PV production line.

We congratulate very much on this success!