Solar energy experts gather in Seoul to chart next-generation technology, energy transition

Solar energy experts from around the world have gathered in Seoul to discuss next-generation solar cell technology and global energy transition strategies.

The Korea Institute of Energy Research announced it is hosting the 69th Steering Committee meeting and 67th Task 1 regular meeting of the International Energy Agency Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme, known as IEA PVPS, at Seoul Global Center from Monday through Friday.

About 50 representatives from IEA PVPS member countries and solar energy specialists are attending the meetings. Participants will share developments in global solar technology, market trends and policy directions, and explore avenues for international cooperation to accelerate solar energy deployment.

IEA PVPS is an international solar technology cooperation program launched in 1993. More than 30 countries and organizations, including South Korea, participate in joint research spanning solar technology development, demonstration, deployment, and market and policy analysis.

The Steering Committee will discuss research directions for key technologies, including hybrid energy systems that combine solar power with energy storage systems and agrivoltaics, which integrate farming and power generation on the same land. Particular focus will be placed on grid integration and strategies for securing power system flexibility — areas of growing importance as solar power accounts for a larger share of electricity generation.

A separate session involving domestic government, industry and research experts is scheduled for Thursday. The Korea Energy Agency will present South Korea's policies for expanding renewable energy, while Hanwha Solutions will report on the commercialization progress and technical achievements of its next-generation tandem solar cells.

The Korea Institute of Energy Research plans to analyze the impact of solar technology advances on greenhouse gas reduction and outline pathways to achieving carbon neutrality through technological innovation.

The institute will also host special sessions and an industry forum at the 9th World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion, to be held in Daejeon from Nov. 15 to 20, covering topics including the Asian solar market and policy landscape, South Korea-EU solar research cooperation, low-cost battery technology and grid flexibility.

Kwak Ji-hye, head of the institute's Solar Energy Research Division, said solar power is "a core energy source for achieving carbon neutrality and an important growth engine for future industries," adding that the meetings are expected to serve as an opportunity to share experiences from countries around the world and strengthen international cooperation for the sustainable development of solar technology and industry.