Solar energy reimagined: CPNE students dive into CSEM’s tech secrets  

Michael Canonica, Deputy Head of Renewable Energy activities at CSEM, kicked off the visit with a presentation about the center’s activities, with a focus on renewable energies. Through striking figures and real-world examples from industrial projects, he demonstrated how CSEM’s innovations play a key role in the energy transition and building a sustainable future. The students got a real sense of the impact these technologies can have. 

After this introduction, it was time for action: off to the Innoparc showroom for an interactive tour. The students got a first-hand look at several solar technologies, some of which are unique in the world. Among the innovations that particularly wowed them were tiles equipped with solar modules invisible to the naked eye. These marvels allow historical buildings to maintain their appearance while generating energy—a perfect blend of aesthetics and ecological function. Another surprising discovery was customizable solar panels that can incorporate photos or color patterns. These demonstrations revealed an unexpected side of solar energy: far from being limited to functional installations, this technology can now adapt to aesthetic and heritage constraints, offering new possibilities for architecture and urban design. 

Daniela, an architecture student, was particularly inspired: "When you think of solar panels, you often imagine a big black or dark blue block, not very pretty. I was thrilled to discover there are aesthetic solutions I can integrate into my future architectural projects." 

This visit is part of one of CSEM’s fundamental missions: raising awareness among young people about the technological and environmental challenges that will shape the future. This experience gave them the opportunity to understand how innovations, particularly in the solar energy field, can truly transform our society. 

Benedicte Bonnet-Eymard, Co-Group Leader of Sustainable Energy at CSEM, emphasized the importance of the solar technologies developed by CSEM. “These technologies are not just technical solutions; they are powerful tools for building a sustainable future,” she explains, noting that every solar innovation from CSEM’s labs meets concrete needs, with direct applications in building, infrastructure, mobility, and agriculture. 

Matthieu Despeisse, Co-Group Leader of Sustainable Energy, stressed the need to attract both young women and men to engineering careers. “To build balanced teams and tackle tomorrow’s challenges, it’s essential that these careers are accessible to everyone, regardless of gender. The diversity of perspectives is a key factor in innovation and success.” 

CSEM recognizes the importance of training and diversifying the next generation of engineers. In addition to educational visits, the technology innovation center actively promotes science among an increasingly diverse audience. Through initiatives like Tech Ladies, Back2Business, Kinderlab, and outreach programs in Swiss schools, CSEM encourages vocations and equal opportunities in scientific and technological careers.  

Who knows? These actions might just inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators ready to tackle the technological and energy challenges of tomorrow!