Energy: Photovoltaics conference brings together research and industry

Over 250 participants, including researchers, photovoltaic industry entrepreneurs, and institutional representatives, attended the Third Italian Photovoltaics Network Conference (RIFV) held in Naples. Organized by ENEA in collaboration with the Italian Photovoltaics Network (Rete IFV), the event aimed to foster the exchange of knowledge, ideas, experiences, and proposals and share strategies and solutions to ensure national competitiveness in the sector.

“Solar photovoltaics is a key technology to foster the energy transition needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Giulia Monteleone, Director of the ENEA Department of Energy Technologies and Renewable Sources during the opening session. “Developing next-generation PV technologies and exploring integrated and innovative solutions for photovoltaic systems are priorities to meet 2030 targets for installed PV capacity and create new competitive growth opportunities for Italy’s PV industry. This is why we must continue to invest in research and innovation, develop high-efficiency, low-cost cells and modules and  define new technological approaches that make integration possible across different contexts,” Monteleone said.

The scientific program united all key stakeholders in the sector, with significant participation from young researchers who presented the results of their work, showcasing expertise developed nationwide.

A total of 150 scientific contributions, including presentations and posters, dealt with basic research, PV system applications, industrial supply chains, and the role of photovoltaics in the energy transition, including social and environmental aspects.

The discussions also addressed timely issues like the use of artificial intelligence to collect and analyse data across the entire PV value chain.

“It will be crucial to continue growing the IFV Network and enhancing its role as a space for open, informal dialogue among businesses, universities, research institutions and stakeholders. This will optimize collaboration, foster new projects, and lead to the creation of national facilities designed as open incubators” said Paola Delli Veneri, Conference Chair and Head of the ENEA Photovoltaics Division, Department of Energy Technologies and Renewable Sources.

During the Conference, four researchers from the Universities of Salerno, Turin, Trento, and Basilicata were given awards for their scientific contributions deemed particularly valuable for the IFV Network.

The participation of institutional guests boosted the event visibility, with speeches by Laura Lieto, Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Urban Planning of the City of Naples; Valeria Fascione, Councillor for Research, Innovation and Startups of the Campania Region; and Filippo De Rossi, Deputy Commissioner for Environmental Remediation and Urban Regeneration of the Bagnoli National Interest Area.

The next IFV Network Conference will take place in Catania, June 11–12, 2026.