Hello! I’m an enthusiastic professional in the fields of photovoltaics (PVs) with expertise in materials science and high ideals of sustainable development. I was born in the city of Palermo, Italy, and pursued my studies in chemistry, specializing in photochemistry. Throughout my PhD and postdoctoral research, I have made significant contributions to the development of materials and thin films for optoelectronic applications including integration into cutting-edge solar cells for building-integrated and tandem PVs. Currently, I work as an Innovation Specialist at 3SUN, a leading manufacturer of silicon heterojunction (HJT) solar cells and modules. Shifting from academic research to industrial research has allowed me to develop a more concrete, end-user-oriented perspective, providing me with a deeper understanding of the real needs in the market, as well as the practical challenges of scaling up innovations for large-scale production.
What was your original motivation to become a research project manager?
My original motivation to become a researcher stemmed from my passion for scientific discoveries. As a child, I was curious about the world around me and constantly sought answers to my many questions. This curiosity led me to appreciate how science could provide those answers. Additionally, my specific fascination with the interactions between light and matter led me to specialize in photochemistry. Seeking a practical application for my passion, I found myself drawn to solar cell research, where I could combine my interests with the current global challenges. I have always been fascinated by the potential of renewable energy to create a sustainable future. During my academic journey, I enjoyed conducting experiments and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, which inspired me to pursue a career in research.
What is your (main) research area today?
As a member of the R&D team at 3SUN, I primarily work on optimizing silicon HJT technology to make it increasingly sustainable and competitive, while also promoting the industrialization of emerging PV technologies such as tandem perovskite-silicon solar cells towards enhanced efficiency and reliability. As a PV Innovation Specialist, my main goal is to identify innovative PV solutions and facilitate their technology transfer from lab-scale developments to the marketplace, while carefully considering market demands and the complexities involved in scaling up production.
What is the main objective of your team in SiLEAN?
3SUN joined the SiLEAN project to support advances in the field of silicon PV and aid in boosting the industrialization of cutting-edge PV technologies. The main objective of our team is to assist partners in the definition of standard HJT cells and modules manufacturing, as well as in the development of alternative device designs aimed to reduce the environmental footprint and increase the market competitiveness of silicon PV products. Through our expertise in industrial-scale production, we will evaluate the compatibility of processes and strategies to large-area manufacturing in the perspective of both utility-scale and distributed generation PV applications.
What expertise and facilities does your team have to meet those objectives?
Our team at 3SUN has extensive expertise in solar cells and modules production at gigawatt scale. Our state-of-the-art facilities in Catania allow us to manufacture HJT products with fully automated processes. One of the key advantages of conducting research within an industrial environment is the ability to work with a very stable baseline, which provides a reliable foundation for testing and optimizing new technologies. Additionally, we have access to large-scale equipment and the ability to handle high volumes, enabling us to quickly assess the feasibility of scaling up innovative processes and to translate cutting-edge research into tangible, commercially viable solutions. Having a team focused on bringing innovative PV strategies to market is a significant asset for the SiLEAN project.
Which aspects of your research at SiLEAN do you believe are the most innovative and what unique opportunities offer SiLEAN to yourself and/or your organisation?
The most innovative aspects of the SiLEAN project include the development of advanced passivation concepts, indium-free contact layers, and alternative MW interconnection approaches for high-efficiency silicon HJT solar cells and modules. These innovations aim to reduce the reliance on scarce materials like indium, silver, and bismuth, making the technology more sustainable and cost-effective. As the final users of these new strategies, we play a key role in bridging the gap between lab-scale innovation and mass production. Unique opportunities offered by SiLEAN to myself and 3SUN include the chance to collaborate with leading experts and institutions across Europe. This collaboration allows us to push the boundaries of PV technology and integrate cutting-edge research into industrial-scale scenarios. SiLEAN provides an opportunity to enhance our technological know-how and reinforce our position as a leader in the PV industry. It also enables us to contribute to the development of more efficient and sustainable PV solutions, aligning with our commitment to innovation and sustainability.
How do you see the future use of the SiLEAN results and the impact of SiLEAN project in our daily lives?
I see a promising future for the use of SiLEAN results. The project aims to overcome the limitations of current solar technologies and make them more efficient and affordable. Additionally, SILEAN focuses on creating a lean process chain for HJT solar cells with lower energy demand, which is a significant advancement in reducing the carbon footprint of solar cell manufacturing. This could lead to the widespread adoption of high-performance solar panels in various applications, driving the transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. Moreover, a successful outcome of this project could help reinforce a more resilient and sustainable European PV value chain, contributing to the reshoring of PV manufacturing in Europe. This aligns with 3SUN strategic vision of strengthening Europe’s technological leadership in the renewable energy sector.
