Photovoltaics and Thin Film Electronics Laboratory

The Laboratory of Photovoltaic and Electronic Thin Layers (PV-Lab) at EPFL, founded in 1984, is a pioneering research facility led by Prof. Christophe Ballif. It specializes in thin-film silicon technology, including very high frequency plasma deposition and microcrystalline silicon for efficient photovoltaics. The lab excels in device fabrication for various solar cells, transparent conductive oxides, and specialty detectors. It is recognized as a center of national importance for its contributions to the field, with a strong focus on industrial technology transfer and innovation. The lab collaborates closely with Swiss and European research institutes and industries, playing a key role in the development of advanced photovoltaic technologies and energy systems.