News: Photovoltaics
2 September 2026
US DOE announces $12m funding opportunity to develop space PVs
To accelerate technical innovation and expand domestic manufacturing capabilities for solar panels in space applications, the US Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation has announced a $12m funding opportunity to help to ensure that the next generation of space photovoltaics (PV) is developed in the USA.
“The next frontier for solar PV power generation is in space,” says Assistant Secretary of Energy Audrey Robertson. “As demand for space-grade PV skyrockets, this investment will establish American leadership in next-generation, space-based PV, bolster our national security, and enhance our economic competitiveness.” The USA developed the first solar cells specifically tailored for spacecraft and, in March 1958, launched the world’s first solar-powered satellite.
Through the Space Photovoltaics (PV) Research and Development Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) opportunity, the DOE and partnership intermediary TechWerx are seeking projects that address the following topic areas:
- Next-generation Cell Innovation (Topic 1): Projects will focus on the advancement of high-performance, low-cost and durable space-grade PV cells in the lab environment;
- Rapid Production and Demonstration (Topic 2): Projects will focus on advancing innovative, high-volume manufacturing processes and demonstrating third-party-validated performance of module prototypes in space or near-space environments.
The PIA opportunity will fund projects for up to three years. University and industry research laboratories developing advanced, space-applicable PV technologies or specializing in PV characterization and stress testing, as well as industry teams advancing near-commercial, pilot-scale space PV solutions with testing partnerships and the capability to fly PV prototypes or panels in space are encouraged to apply. Expected individual awards are up to $1.5m for Topic 1 and up to $2m for Topic 2.
A webinar with additional information on this funding opportunity is being held at 1pm on 15 September. Click here to Register for the informational webinar. Applications must be submitted by 11:59pm ET on 8 October.
The Space PV R&D initiative is managed by TechWerx in partnership with DOE, a collaboration made possible through an innovative Partnership Intermediary Agreement set up by the DOE’s Office of Technology Commercialization. This agreement enables TechWerx to broaden DOE’s engagement with innovative organizations and non-traditional partners, facilitating the rapid development, scaling, and deployment of energy solutions.
