The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is Europe’s largest application-oriented research organization. Fraunhofer undertakes applied research of direct utility to private and public enterprise and of wide benefit to society.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE is the largest institute in Europe for applied research and development in the field of solar energy conversion. One focus of our activities is hydrogen technology which comprises hydrogen production by means of reforming and electrolysis as well as hydrogen conversion into electrical power and heat by means of fuel cells.

Integrated into the Division of Energy Technology, the Fuel Cell Systems department performs research on complete fuel cell systems for micro, portable and small stationary appliances. We cover all aspects from characterization, simulation and development of cell, stack and system design, as well as the system. Over 15 test rigs for low and high temperature PEM fuel cells, 2 climate chambers, ICP-MS, ESEM allow us in depth research. Today the Fuel Cell System department employs 13 scientists and engineers and about 15 student researchers.

Number of employees: 1 100
Fields of research: energy efficient buildings, applied optics and functional surfaces, solar thermal technology, silicon photovoltaics, photovoltaic modules and systems, alternative photovoltaic technologies, renewable power supply, hydrogen technology
Website: www.H₂-ise.de