PVT Nexus - Growing Europe’s Research Community in Photovoltaic-Thermal

The energy transition calls not only for new technologies but also for new communities of practice. In the field of photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) systems, Europe is witnessing both. PVT4EU is driving forward cutting-edge prototypes while also creating the conditions for a vibrant research network to thrive. At the center of this effort is PVT Nexus: a platform designed to connect early-stage researchers (ESRs) with mentors and peers, accelerating both innovation and careers in PVT.

This vision took shape most recently on August 27th, 2025, when PVT4EU gathered experts, researchers, and industry representatives at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm for its international workshop “Modelling and Experimentation of PVT Technologies.” The event explored the state of the art in system integration, modeling, and testing, while also officially launching PVT Nexus as a hub for collaboration and growth.

PVT Nexus complements existing international initiatives, such as the IEA SHC Task 73 on PVT Heating Systems, by focusing on interdisciplinary collaboration, hands-on knowledge exchange, and boosting the visibility of young researchers entering this fast-growing field. The network will also offer a matchmaking platform to connect ESRs and mentors, fostering joint research, training, and career development opportunities.

PVT

Call for Interest

PVT Nexus is now open for applications. Early-stage researchers working on PVTs and related fields are invited to join and benefit from networking, mentoring, and training opportunities. Mentors interested in supporting the next generation of PVT experts are also encouraged to sign up.

Learn more and register here: https://pvt4eu.eu/research-network/

About PVT4EU

Running from October 2023 to September 2026, PVT4EU aims to boost the European PVT market by developing and testing two innovative prototypes under real-world Nordic and Southern European conditions:

  • PVT-SP collector, a repurposed polymer-based heat exchanger optimized for low-grade heat applications. With strong potential in heat pump integration, pool heating, and HVAC systems, PVT-SP aims to develop a cost-effective and sustainable solution for retrofitting existing PV panels.
  • PVT-MG collector, a double CPC collector designed for high-temperature applications such as solar heat for industrial processes and domestic hot water, with stable operation up to 140 °C.

By combining technical innovation, collaborative research, and network-building, PVT4EU is setting the stage for a stronger, more connected PVT community in Europe and beyond.

This project has been granted by the Clean Energy Transition Partnership Programme (project ID. CETP-2022-00403). The work is supported by national funds through, Sweden: Swedish Energy Agency (P2023-00884); Denmark: Innovation Fund Denmark (3112-00010B); and Portugal: FCT- Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, I.P. (CETP/0004/2022)

Websites of the mentioned organizations and initiatives:

The workshop presentations are available for download here (https://mcusercontent.com/91c8132de11c70d3a174eaf78/files/fa08d803-577d-5d98-05e8-9aa77df758d8/Workshop_Modelling_and_Experimentation_of_PVT_technologies.02.pdf)

This article was written by:

Francisco Beltran

Young ISES Representative