Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 4, US-based solar manufacturer Talon PV and Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (Fraunhofer ISE) have announced a joint initiative to establish a pilot TOPCon solar cell production line in Germany.

View into the Fraunhofer ISE Photovoltaic Technology Evaluation Center PV-TEC

The pilot facility will be set up at Fraunhofer ISE’s Photovoltaic Technology Evaluation Center (PV-TEC) in Freiburg. It will replicate the equipment planned for Talon PV’s 4 GW solar cell factory under construction in Houston, Texas. This alignment is intended to optimize both product design and manufacturing processes ahead of full-scale production.

Jochen Rentsch, Head of PV Technology Transfer at Fraunhofer ISE, said: “The copy of the manufacturing line from Talon PV allows us to optimize both the product and the process of the new factory even before production begins. This saves time and money.”

The pilot line will focus on producing TOPCon solar cells in the G12 format. Talon PV emphasized its commitment to supplying American module manufacturers with G12, G12R, and customized TOPCon cells, supporting localization and strengthening of the U.S. solar supply chain.

No additional details regarding further expansion in Europe or specific production capacity for the pilot line were disclosed.

This collaboration combines Talon PV’s manufacturing expertise with Fraunhofer ISE’s research capabilities, allowing early testing and process refinement while laying the groundwork for larger-scale production. The initiative aims to accelerate technology transfer and optimize efficiency for the upcoming Houston factory.

The project represents a step toward reinforcing both European pilot testing and U.S.-focused solar cell supply chains, demonstrating a cross-continental approach to advancing renewable energy technology.

By establishing a pilot line in Freiburg, the partners can evaluate production performance, identify potential improvements, and ensure smooth transition to high-volume manufacturing in Texas. This model aligns research and industrial development to reduce costs and technical risks before commercial deployment.

The focus on TOPCon technology reflects growing industry interest in high-efficiency solar cells capable of meeting increasing electricity demand while supporting renewable energy targets. Talon PV and Fraunhofer ISE’s collaboration exemplifies how research institutes and private manufacturers can work together to accelerate deployment of next-generation photovoltaic technologies.

Overall, the pilot production line in Germany is expected to serve as a critical testing and validation hub, allowing Talon PV to refine its processes and support the future 4 GW Houston facility while contributing to broader solar energy innovation.

The partnership highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen supply chains, improve manufacturing efficiency, and advance solar technology adoption in both Europe and the United States.