Nexwafe

Nexwafe GmbH is an innovative company that specializes in the revolutionary production of monocrystalline silicon wafers for the solar industry. Founded in 2015 as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, Nexwafe has its roots in years of research and development.

Nexwafe develops and produces highly efficient, ultra-thin, and cost-effective solar wafers using a unique, patented epitaxy technology. This "Gas-to-Wafer" technology enables the direct production of monocrystalline silicon wafers from low-cost raw materials, significantly reducing energy consumption and production time while generating less waste[4][5].

The mission of Nexwafe is to set the standard for the future production of photovoltaic wafers by developing efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly solar technologies. The company is committed to accelerating the transition to renewable energy and revitalizing photovoltaic production in Europe.

Nexwafe stands for several core values:

• United Purpose: A global team united in its goal to shape the future of clean energy.
• Close to our Customers: The company carefully listens to the needs of its customers and partners and builds trust through consistent adherence to commitments.
• Breakthrough Innovation: Continuous innovation and ongoing improvement in all areas.
• Courageous Honesty: Honesty is prioritized over personal interests, and respectful, fact-based feedback is encouraged.
• Excellence in all we do: World-class performance in all daily responsibilities and behaviors[3].

Nexwafe is strongly committed to reducing the ecological footprint of solar wafer production. Through the continuous, direct gas-to-wafer process, energy consumption is minimized, and less waste is generated. This leads to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 70% compared to conventional production methods. The company is a member of the Ultra Low-Carbon Solar Alliance, Solar Power Europe, and the European Solar Manufacturing Council, highlighting its involvement in European and German initiatives to promote PV production[4].

Nexwafe plans to establish a gigawatt factory in Bitterfeld, Germany, to enter mass production of solar wafers. This factory will be based on a former polysilicon plant and is expected to utilize the site's recycling facilities to reclaim process gases. This step is part of the strategy to bring photovoltaic production back to Europe and accelerate the transition to renewable energy[5].

With its innovative technology and strong sustainability goals, Nexwafe positions itself as a leader in the solar industry and significantly contributes to the global transition to clean energy.

• 1 - https://www.startbase.de/organization/nexwafe-gmbh/
• 2 - https://www.nexwafe.com/about-us
• 3 - https://www.nexwafe.com
• 4 - https://www.nexwafe.com/news/nexwafe-schlie%C3%9Ft-serie-c-investitionsrunde-ab
• 5 - https://www.strom-forschung.de/aktuelles/news/2020/nexwafe-plant-gigawattfabrik-in-bitterfeld