DigiSolar – Digital tools for optimised planning, maintenance and operation of solar thermal systems

DigiSolar is accelerating the clean energy transition by seamlessly integrating large-scale solar thermal systems with other renewable energy sources. This transformative approach drives industrial decarbonization, electrification, and crucial energy flexibility for district heating networks and industrial process heat. At the core of this initiative is the DS Suite: a digital platform engineered to optimize every stage of a hybrid solar thermal system’s lifetime. By bridging the gap between complex technology and market implementation, the platform empowers planners, operators, and end-users through several key innovations:

• Digital Twin Technology & AI: Enabling real-time energy optimization, performance verification, and AI-driven automated fault detection.
• Smart Forecasting & LCA: Utilizing advanced tools to accurately predict supply and demand while incorporating comprehensive life cycle assessments.
• Model Predictive Control: Maximizing daily system efficiency and lifetime reliability through advanced control systems and predictive maintenance.
• Investor-Trusted Planning: Providing user-friendly tools and innovative business models designed to de-risk investments, lower ROI periods, and boost market penetration.

To ensure real-world viability, the DS Suite will be developed, validated, and deployed at scale across four demo-sites in Southern and Western Europe, testing applications in district heating, industrial processes, and cross-sectoral systems. This effort is backed by a consortium of 3 leading R&D institutions and 9 industry partners, including solar thermal technology providers, engineering firms, utilities, and digital solution experts. Ultimately, DigiSolar aims to eliminate market barriers, lower financial risks for investors, and accelerate the transition to a resilient, carbon-free energy future while reinforcing Europe’s leadership in renewable innovation.