Personalized solar panels are just one step away

Personalized solar panels are just one step away

In the Swiss town of Neuchâtel, CSEM have developed a new technology called KALEO which allows for solar panels to be personalized with photographs. The first six panels of this kind can now be admired in the gardens of the Banque Cantonale Neuchâteloise (BCN), a major sponsor of this project.

CSEM is a Swiss research and development center founded in 1984. Specializing in microtechnology, nanotechnology, microelectronics, system engineering, photovoltaics and communications technologies, around 450 highly qualified specialists from various scientific and technical disciplines work for CSEM in locations such as Neuchâtel, Zurich, Muttenz, Alpnach, and Landquart. Their newest success: a technology which allows for solar panels to be personalized with a photograph.

During the last few decades, CSEM have developed a series of remarkable technologies, thanks to the support of various public partners. The main goal is always to find esthetic photovoltaics solutions, and KALEO is one of them.

 

An idea based on the KALEO technology

Despite proudly presenting the new technology on their website, CSEM leave us in the dark regarding the details of KALEO and how it works. All that is communicated is the fact that with this technology, boring solar panels can be designed individually by adding a personal image. “The image is printed on a film that has been specially chosen to be durably integrated in the solar module“, a press release explains. As a result, house owners might be more likely to consider investing in an installation for their rooftop. Also, the surfaces might be used for advertising, which could all promote solar in general.

 

Technology has successfully been tested

A first six panels, showcasing various facial expressions, have already been decorated following a competition asking for great photographs. These panels have been revealed in late June and are located in the gardens of the Banque Cantonale Neuchâteloise (BCN), who have significantly supported this project. They can be admired as part of an exhibition throughout the entire summer.

 

Source: CSEM, BCN, KALEO

Title Image: KALEO “The image is printed on a film that has been specially chosen to be durably integrated in the solar module.”