Phytonics celebrates sales launch

15.10.2024 Aline Kinzie News

The Karlsruhe-based company Phytonics recently started selling a promising solution to the glare problem of photovoltaic (PV) modules. With a self-adhesive film that can be applied to almost any solar module, Phytonics offers an innovative way to improving visibility.

After a long period of development work, June 2024 marked the long-awaited market launch of XRF anti-glare film. The self-adhesive film uses bionic microstructures that allow light to be efficiently guided and significantly reduce glare. This not only ensures better visibility, but also increases the output of the modules in so-called marginal periods, when light falls particularly flat on their surface. The materials used are particularly robust and resistant to UV radiation, moisture, heat and hail – ideal for outdoor use.

Dr. Ruben Hünig, CEO of Phytonics, emphasizes the high demand for flexible solutions: “We receive inquiries every day, often due to neighbourhood disputes, but also from project planners near freeways and airports.” The launch of this film therefore not only pleases Phytonics, but also numerous customers who are already waiting for a solution to their glare problem.

One vivid example of the successful use of the film is a plus-energy house in Switzerland whose PV system previously dazzled the neighbors. After applying the film, this problem was quickly resolved. Similar positive experiences have been reported by operators of balcony PV systems and by the operators of a supermarket roof in Essen, whose building permit depended on the use of glare-free modules.

The film can be applied to both existing and new PV systems. Installers now have the opportunity to proactively educate customers about potential glare situations, thereby setting themselves apart from the competition.

Phytonics was founded in June 2021 by Ruben Hünig, Moritz Luck, Benjamin Fritz and Raphael Schmager. Starting out in their research at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, over the years a strong company developed. By the beginning of 2022, Phytonics had already built up a team of ten experts in the field of microoptics and photovoltaics, and in October of the same year, the first commercial solar module in full format was presented. In 2023, the KIT start-up successfully equipped two pilot roofs with its product, as well as a pilot plant in Karlsruhe as a location for developing production processes and now also for production.

With the official start of sales, Phytonics is now taking the next step on its founding journey; its film is now available in sheets or rolls. According to the company, future price developments will depend on various factors. With its technical innovation, Phytonics offers a new way to advance the energy transition and shows how to address both ecological and social challenges.