Project at a glance

NorthernLight is a Nordic collaborative initiative dedicated to advancing solar photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) research through strong cross-border cooperation, mobility, and capacity building. The project brings together leading universities, research institutes, industry partners, and policymakers from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden to accelerate innovation and market uptake of PVT technologies.

Project Objectives

Nordic PVT Research Collaboration

NorthernLight strengthens collaboration by connecting leading research institutions, universities, and industry partners across Nordic countries. By pooling expertise, research infrastructure, and data, the project avoids duplication of efforts and promotes coordinated research activities. This collaborative framework enhances knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary cooperation, and the overall quality and impact of PVT research in the Nordic region.

Joint Education and Training

The project develops shared educational activities such as joint courses, summer schools, workshops, and seminars focused on photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) technologies. These programmes integrate technical, economic, environmental, and digital perspectives, ensuring participants gain comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge. Joint curriculum design also harmonizes training standards across institutions and prepares students and researchers for careers in sustainable energy research and innovation.

Researcher and PhD Mobility

NorthernLight promotes mobility by enabling PhD students and researchers to undertake short- and long-term research stays at partner institutions. Mobility enhances skill development, access to specialized facilities, and exposure to diverse research environments. Joint supervision and mentoring further strengthen academic quality while fostering long-lasting professional networks within the Nordic research community and beyond.

Research-to-Market Innovation

The project actively bridges the gap between academic research and practical application by engaging industry partners, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. Through targeted workshops, advisory boards, and innovation activities, NorthernLight supports technology transfer, commercialization strategies, and market readiness of PVT solutions. This ensures that research outcomes contribute directly to real-world deployment and economic growth.

Sustainable Energy for Nordic Climates

NorthernLight addresses the unique climatic, geographic, and energy-system conditions of the Nordic region. By investigating PVT system performance, integration, and feasibility in cold and variable climates, the project delivers region-specific solutions that enhance energy efficiency, reliability, and resilience. These efforts support the Nordic transition toward low-carbon energy systems and contribute to global climate and sustainability goals.