New energy technologies
Updated on September 2011
Our strategy
Results achieved :
Hydrogen storage :
Following the qualification of tanks with internal metal envelopes under a pressure of 700 bars in 2001, CEA obtained in 2003 and 2004 promising results on reservoirs with internal envelopes made of polymers.
Photovoltaic cells :
In 2004, the efficiency of 150 mm x 150 mm silicon cells was over 15%. The target for 2010 is to obtain a conversion efficiency of around 20% on 200 mm x 200 mm cells, with manufacturing costs of less than €1/peak Watt.
Creation of INES (Institute for Solar Energy)
A center of excellence bringing French expertise and resources in solar energy technology together in Chambéry (research players : CNRS, CEA, CSTB and companies : Clipsol, Photowatt, Total Energie, etc.)
Respond to the growing energy demand while reducing greenhouse gas emissions has now become an international challenge. To meet this challenge, CEA has brought all its new energy technology (NET) initiatives together within the Laboratory for Innovation in New Energy Technologies and Nanomaterials (LITEN).
Development of hydrogen energy for transport applications
CEA's R&D program aims to develop the use of hydrogen as an energy carrier, and covers the complete chain : production with clean andefficient processes (high temperature decomposition of water, biomass gasification), storage with innovative technologies, distribution, conversion in fuel cells of PEMFC or SOFC types, safety, technio-economic and social aspects.
LITEN is seeking to overcome the technological difficulties related to the use of hydrogen and fuel cells for transport (compact, lightweight and safe on-board hydrogen storage, reliable, high-performance and low-cost fuel cells). This technology will be deployed progressively in industrial applications between 2010 and 2030.
Development of solar energy and energy management in buildings
Solar power and energy management are ideal for the building sector because thermal and electrical energy sources and loads within the home can easily be optimized. The R&D program is focused on technologies to improve the cost-effectiveness of components and systems.
With regard to photovoltaic cells, LITEN is concentrating on silicon and organic technologies, which are promising but require a major technological breakthrough. Modeling of systems is also a major area of development in order to offer services for designing. Work on the storage of renewable energies is focused on the development of innovative batteries.
Our partners
- On hydrogen technologies,CEA is working in particular with Air Liquide, PSA, GDF, Dalkia, Vivendi, Snecma, EDF, etc.
- On photovoltaic cell technology, CEA is collaborating with Photowatt, Pechiney, Appolon Solar and on photovoltaic modules and systems, with TOTAL Energie.
Figures & research resources
Approximately 300 LITEN researchers, engineers and technicians are participating in this R&D program.