The solar energy landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by the urgent need for sustainable solutions to combat climate change and energy insecurity. As global demand for clean energy surges, innovative technologies are emerging to address key challenges such as grid instability, high energy storage costs, and energy access in underserved communities. This article delves into the latest trends in solar energy, highlighting energy storage systems that bring the reliability and efficiency of solar power integration.
We will explore off-grid solar solutions that empower remote populations and decentralized energy models that promote local production. Additionally, we will examine technologies like perovskite that make renewable energy more accessible to underserved communities. By examining startups at the forefront of these developments, we will illuminate the pathways toward a more resilient and equitable energy future.
What are the Top Solar Energy Trends in 2025?
- Advanced Photovoltaics
- Energy Storage Systems
- Off-Grid Solar Energy
- Solar Asset Management
- Solar Microgrids
- Bifacial Solar Panels
- Decentralized Solar Power
- Perovskite Solar Cells
- Tandem Solar Cell
Innovation Map outlines the Top 9 Solar Energy Trends & 9 Promising Startups
For this in-depth research on the Top Solar Energy Trends & Startups, we analyzed a sample of 3052 global startups & scaleups. This data-driven research provides innovation intelligence that helps you improve strategic decision-making by giving you an overview of emerging technologies in the solar energy industry. In the Solar Energy Innovation Map, you get a comprehensive overview of the innovation trends & startups that impact your company.
These insights are derived by working with our Big Data & Artificial Intelligence-powered StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering 4 760 120+ startups & scaleups globally. As the world’s largest resource for data on emerging companies, the SaaS platform enables you to identify relevant technologies and industry trends quickly & exhaustively.
Tree Map Reveals the Impact of the Top 9 Solar Energy Trends [2025 & Beyond]
Based on the Solar Energy Innovation Map, the TreeMap below illustrates the impact of the Top 9 Solar Energy Trends for 2025. The rise of energy storage systems emphasizes their role in addressing intermittency and improving grid stability. Off-grid solar solutions are expanding energy access in remote areas, while decentralized solar power systems provide communities with localized energy generation.
Solar asset management leverages digital tools and AI to optimize performance and improve reliability. Photovoltaics continue to evolve, with technologies improving efficiency and space utilization. Plus, solar microgrids integrate diverse energy sources to deliver resilience and ensure uninterrupted power supply. Meanwhile, perovskite solar cells drive cost-effective solutions with their high efficiency and flexible applications. Together, these innovations are paving the way for a sustainable and resilient energy future.
Global Startup Heat Map covers 3052 Solar Energy Startups & Scaleups
The Global Startup Heat Map below highlights the global distribution of the 3052 exemplary startups & scaleups that we analyzed for this research. Created through the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, the Heat Map reveals high startup activity in the US and UK, followed by Australia.
Below, you get to meet 18 out of these 3052 promising startups & scaleups as well as the solutions they develop. These solar energy startups are hand-picked based on criteria such as founding year, location, funding raised & more. Depending on your specific needs, your top picks might look entirely different.
Want to explore all solar energy innovations & trends?
Top 9 Emerging Trends in the Solar Energy Industry [2025 & Beyond]
1. Advanced Photovoltaics
Space utilization, intermittency, grid integration, and efficiently converting sunlight into electricity are notable roadblocks in the energy sector. Solar cells, which are the primary technology behind photovoltaics, convert light into electricity for power generation. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) improve space utilization and boost energy efficiency in urban environments. Smart inverters improve the integration of solar energy into the grid.
They stabilize the grid by managing fluctuations in power output and improving energy management. Solar tracking systems adjust the angle of solar panels to follow the sun’s movement and maximize energy capture throughout the day. Further, batteries store excess electricity generated during the day and allow PV systems to supply power when sunlight is not available. Thus, advanced photovoltaics increase generation capacity and effectively support sustainable energy solutions in a rapidly changing climate.
EtaVolt enhances PV Efficiency & Longevity
EtaVolt is a Singaporean startup that offers solutions for maximizing the efficiency and longevity of photovoltaic (PV) systems. It utilizes four key technologies, ηMax, ηPod, ηTune, and ηGen. The ηMax solution focuses on effective maintenance by employing an automated regeneration tool to unlock lost performance and improve the power output of solar panels without disassembly. Next, ηPod provides a smart decentralized recycling process, allowing for the profitable recycling of solar panels through mechanical assessments.
This technology avoids harmful chemical treatments and enables on-site deployment of the recycling line. Additionally, ηTune serves as an AI-enabled health checkup tool that uses historical inverter data to pinpoint causes of underperformance. This technology delivers actionable insights to improve solar investments. Lastly, ηGen facilitates quick visualizations and quotes in just three minutes to align the pre-sales process for solar businesses.
Delex Belgium provides On-Grid Photovoltaic Systems
Delex Belgium is a Belgian startup that designs and distributes renewable energy solutions, offering solar panels, batteries, and electric car chargers. It serves residential, commercial, and industrial customers with its range of products. Its photovoltaic technology converts sunlight into electricity through mono- and polycrystalline panels. These panels have power capacities ranging from 280 to 350 watts and support grid-connected and off-grid configurations. The photovoltaic kits are easy to install on roofs or floors, with an estimated output of 150 kWh/m² annually.
2. Energy Storage Systems
Grid stability, backup power, energy time-shifting, and maximizing solar utilization are key challenges in the solar energy sector. Solutions like lithium-ion batteries address intermittency by providing quick-response storage for residential and utility-scale solar projects. Besides, flow batteries offer long-duration storage for grid stability and support large-scale solar integration.
In addition, solid-state batteries deliver higher energy density and safety to reduce costs and space requirements for energy storage. Thermal energy storage also collects excess solar energy in the form of heat, which is later converted back into electricity or used for heating purposes. Besides, for long-duration storage options, hydrogen is stored and converted back into electricity or used as a clean fuel.
FirstWay Energy advances Renewable Energy Storage
UK-based startup FirstWay Energy develops utility-scale renewable energy solutions that support the transition to net zero. It operates large solar farms equipped with photovoltaic (PV) panels, which absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. Additionally, the company integrates battery energy storage systems (BESS) that store excess energy generated during low-demand periods. This technology facilitates efficient energy management and increases energy security for households, businesses, and communities. Further, FirstWay Energy utilizes colocation strategies for solar farms and battery systems to share grid connections, and improve land use and operational efficiency.
Path Energy delivers Solar Battery Storage Solutions
Path Energy is a UK-based startup that uses commercial solar battery storage systems to store clean, renewable energy for businesses. Its technology includes solar panels that generate clean energy and reduce electricity bills. Also, smart energy tariffs identify the best energy plan from around 65 suppliers in its network. Additionally, it offers solar export tariffs for businesses to sell excess solar energy at competitive prices through exclusive partnerships. The battery storage solution allows companies to store surplus solar and low-cost overnight energy for use during peak demand and maximizes savings on energy bills.
3. Off-Grid Solar Energy
For self-sustained energy systems, off-grid solar technologies offer effective means to produce electricity without relying on centralized networks. Solutions like photovoltaic panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity for off-grid systems. In addition, inverters convert the direct power generated by solar panels into alternating power.
Further, to store excess solar energy for use during periods when sunlight is unavailable, lithium-ion, lead-acid, or flow batteries are an effective source of power. Energy management systems (EMS) also monitor and optimize power usage, battery status, and energy generation. Further, charge controllers regulate the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the batteries while preventing overcharging or deep discharge. These solutions enable more reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective off-grid solar power systems.
Off-Grid Power Systems enable Self-sufficient Power Generation
Off-Grid Power Systems is a US-based startup that specializes in renewable electricity generation and storage. It enables self-sufficient power for various applications, including recreational vehicles, commercial installations, and remote homes. For recreational vehicles, the company provides customized solar solutions that allow travelers to power their adventures off-grid while reducing their carbon footprint. In the commercial sector, it offers tailored green energy solutions for mobile businesses, such as food trucks and work vans. Additionally, for residential properties, the company delivers efficient solar systems that facilitate comfortable off-grid living for cottages, cabins, and outbuildings.
Dragon Q Energy develops an Off-Grid Solar-integrated Power System
US-based startup Dragon Q Energy builds an off-grid, solar-integrated power system that brings electricity to underserved communities using its solution, PowerPole. This system features a modular design that allows it to scale according to specific needs while each unit produces around 15 kWh of energy. PowerPole’s construction withstands extreme climates and adverse weather conditions.
This solution is thus functional even in the most remote locations. By burying batteries just beneath the surface, the company uses geothermal cooling for optimal performance. Additionally, the use of a pressurized argon environment reduces fire risk in oxygen-free settings. With its weld-free design, the PowerPole effectively addresses energy scarcity while promoting prosperity and resilience in humanitarian and disaster relief applications.
4. Solar Asset Management
The energy industry faces cyberattacks, evolving regulations, supply chain uncertainties, and workforce challenges. Predictive maintenance software uses data analytics and machine learning to foresee equipment failures. IoT devices and smart sensors also play a vital role in real-time monitoring of solar assets for optimal performance and early issue detection. Whereas, cloud platforms enable centralized data storage and provide easy access to performance data, management tools, and reports from anywhere.
Complementing this, data analytics and visualization tools deliver insights into asset performance. AI and ML algorithms are effective in analyzing historical performance data to detect anomalies, predict failures, and recommend preventive maintenance strategies. Ultimately, solar asset management brings efficiency and improves investor confidence through performance reporting and project reliability.
Industrias offers Centralized Solar Asset Maintenance
Industrias is an Australian startup that provides solar asset management through its solar optimization software that centralizes the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of commercial solar systems. Its platform consolidates disjointed data into a single source to log maintenance jobs, track tickets, and access real-time reports on asset performance. The startup offers active monitoring, data capturing, auditing, and solar feasibility and design modeling.
By integrating a network of certified technicians, Industrias enables tailored maintenance strategies, prompt responses, and transparent communication across multi-site portfolios. This system reduces downtime risks and improves asset efficiency while offering businesses actionable insights for solar investments and driving financial returns.
Synertics maximize Asset Value with PPA Tool
Synertics is a German startup that structures commercial power purchase agreements (PPAs) using data analytics for renewable energy projects. Its tool evaluates, compares, and tracks PPA offers by analyzing project-specific factors, market dynamics, and weather conditions. This tool further enables the generation of project energy output and the calculation of competitive pricing.
In addition, the PPA tool provides detailed insights into the pricing and grid curtailments for businesses to quantify risks, and assess generation costs, and revenue impacts over a PPA’s duration. The interactive tool features a user-friendly calculator for accurate inputs, transparent automation for analysis, and collaborative tools for sharing findings with peers. Moreover, Synertics allows energy producers and buyers to maximize asset value, mitigate revenue risks, and secure optimal risk-return profiles for renewable energy investments.
5. Solar Microgrids
Solar power system design and scalability. energy storage, grid integration, and coordination are the top challenges in this sector. Solutions like solar panels convert sunlight into electricity and are effective in providing the energy source for microgrids. Plus, demand response and load-shedding systems manage energy consumption, prevent overloads, and offer stable operation. Plus, energy storage systems (ESS) like lithium-ion, enable energy storage for later use and improve the microgrid’s reliability. Power electronics and inverters also manage the flow of electricity between solar panels, storage, and loads for proper conversion and distribution of energy. Additionally, these technologies incorporate renewables into the existing energy framework and improve decarbonization efforts.
SunCode offers Microgrid Services & Commercial Solar Projects
SunCode is a US-based startup that develops solar microgrid solutions that offer reliable power for mission-critical facilities during blackouts. Its microgrid systems operate independently from the main grid by integrating renewable energy sources and energy storage. In addition to microgrid services, the company provides sustainability and clean energy strategies for corporations and building owners.
It also specializes in developing and building utility-scale solar projects that transform underutilized land into long-term solar solutions. By deploying energy storage as a fully integrated offering, SunCode saves consumers money, improves reliability, and reduces environmental impacts. Further, the company turns available roofs, vacant land parcels, or parking lots into cost-saving opportunities through commercial and industrial (C&I) solar projects. SunCode’s approach stabilizes energy costs for clients and generates revenue opportunities for landowners through leasing or selling land for solar projects.
Switch to Renewables delivers Solar-integrated Microgrid Solutions
Switch to Renewables is an Australian startup that delivers tailored microgrid solutions, integrating solar panels, battery storage, diesel generators, EV chargers, and load management systems. It specializes in designing and installing rooftop, ground-mount, and carpark solar systems. The company also offers microgrid power solutions, which include the selection and sizing of major electrical components, control systems, and protection relay setups.
The company’s services cover full grid applications, including distribution network service provider (DNSP) liaison, national electricity rules (NER)/registered professional engineer Queensland (RPEQ) reports, DC/AC design, protection schematics, and detailed AutoCAD drawings. Additionally, it provides commissioning and testing plans, safety documentation, and SCADA/remote monitoring setup.
6. Bifacial Solar Panels
Dual-surface solar panels address challenges like increasing energy harvesting, and improving durability and performance in various environments. The use of monocrystalline or passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) technologies improves the energy capture capabilities of bifacial panels by increasing their performance under low light conditions. Solar tracking systems increase the solar panel’s exposure to sunlight, especially reflected light which improves the overall energy yield. Further, the addition of a transparent back sheet allows sunlight to pass through the rear of the panel, enabling it to absorb reflected light. Additionally, by integrating bifacial technology, the solar industry achieves sustainability goals through more effective utilization of resources.
Illuminate USA enables Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE)
Illuminate USA is a US-based startup that manufactures bifacial solar panels designed for both residential and utility-scale solar markets. They offer sunlight from both sides and maximize energy generation and efficiency. This approach leads to a competitive levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) while providing long-term reliability through rigorous testing and warranties. Additionally, the panels offer hail-resistant solutions that increase their durability in various weather conditions.
Thornova Solar supports Bifacial Solar Module Manufacturing
Thornova Solar is a US-based startup that manufactures high-performance bifacial solar panels for domestic and commercial use. Its N-type and PERC solar modules utilize solar cells that exhibit minimal light-induced degradation (LID). These solutions offer consistent power production over time. The company’s N-type bifacial modules offer higher efficiency and extended lifespans. Its bifacial dual-glass PERC modules deliver up to 560Wp output, making them suitable for utility-scale solar projects.
7. Decentralized Solar Power
Localized solar power technologies address energy poverty and reduce reliance on centralized power grids, particularly in remote or underserved areas. Floating solar PV systems minimize land use conflicts and improve energy production by keeping panels cool. Smart inverters manage and regulate the output of solar panels for efficient integration with local grids. Smart meters and sensors monitor energy production and consumption in real-time. These devices optimize their energy use, track performance, and make adjustments to ensure the smooth performance of the system. By distributing energy generation, decentralized solar power fosters a more sustainable and reliable energy landscape.
Clean Energy Capital offers Power Purchase Agreements
Clean Energy Capital (CEC) is a UK-based startup that provides end-to-end renewable solutions through decentralized solar power. The company identifies, permits, builds, and owns large-scale renewable energy projects. It primarily focuses on solar, storage, and wind assets. CEC delivers cheap renewable power via power purchase agreements (PPAs), which allow businesses to secure stable long-term energy costs while reducing their carbon footprint. It offers attractive propositions for landowners by generating additional income. This way, CEC offers savings on energy bills, improved air quality, and a positive impact on global warming.
Candela Coin boosts Decentralized Solar Energy Tradings
Candela Coin is a US-based startup that decentralizes and democratizes solar energy through its cryptocurrency platform. The company employs a transactive energy system that utilizes blockchain technology, microgrids, and IoT devices. This allows individuals to buy and sell electricity directly without relying on the existing electric grid.
Its marketplace connects prosumers and consumers. This creates a unique energy trading environment where community members achieve their personal and collective energy goals. Additionally, trading bots use AI to assist consumers in reaching their trading objectives. The platform also provides metrics for market analysis, including customer and trade analytics, trading dynamics, and customizable subscriptions.
8. Perovskite Solar Cells
Maintaining high absorption efficiency and producing energy cost-effectively are some of the major challenges in the solar energy sector. Techniques like thin-film deposition create thin perovskite layers to maintain the scalability and cost-effectiveness of the solar cells. Also, tandem solar cells combine perovskite layers with silicon or other similar materials to capture a broader spectrum of sunlight. Plus, stabilization materials address historically poor stability and improve the long-term durability and performance of perovskite solar cells. Additionally, the deployment of perovskite solar cells improves solar energy production while driving the industry toward sustainability through efficiency and cost reduction.
WattByWatt builds Perovskite Modules & Tandem Solar Panels
WattByWatt is a Canadian startup that develops high-performance perovskite-based photovoltaic modules, Perovton. This solution converts both natural and artificial light into electrical energy. These small modules, just a few centimeters in size, are used to power electronic devices like IoT and IIoT systems, including remote controls, sensors, and locks. The company also offers TandemSun, a next-generation solar panel that utilizes silicon-perovskite cell technology. This tandem device boosts solar panel efficiency surpassing the performance of traditional single-junction solar cells.
Solra-PV designs Plug-and-Play Perovskite Solar Panels & Tandem Solar Panels
Israeli startup Solra-PV develops perovskite solar panels that provide a low-cost, fully printable, and adaptable solution for energy needs. The company’s photovoltaic thin films utilize perovskite, a crystalline substance known for its effective light absorption These photovoltaic thin films offer high energy conversion rates in diverse indoor and outdoor applications. The technology enables easy integration with various indoor sensors and eliminates the need for batteries and wiring. Additionally, Solra-PV panels offer plug-and-play capabilities that make them accessible and user-friendly for powering IoT devices.
9. Tandem Solar Cell
The solar energy sector faces various bottlenecks in achieving higher efficiency, integrating flexible and lightweight modules, and increasing power output. Solutions like perovskite materials absorb different parts of the solar spectrum to increase production and efficiency. This ability improves solar cell performance by capturing more sunlight across a broader range of wavelengths.
Also, light management technologies, including anti-reflective coatings and textured surfaces maximize light absorption within the tandem cell. Additionally, atomic layer deposition (ALD) and vapor-phase deposition (VPD) precisely deposit thin layers of materials to achieve uniform layers needed for tandem cells. These tandem solar cells improve renewable energy generation by increasing efficiency and addressing the urgent demand for sustainable power sources.
Beyond Silicon produces Perovskite-on-Silicon Tandem Solar Cells
Beyond Silicon is a US-based startup that develops a perovskite-on-silicon tandem solar cell that increases energy efficiency. This technology combines bifacial perovskite layers with traditional silicon cells to produce more power compared to standard silicon modules. The tandem design allows for a drop-in replacement in existing silicon photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing that aligns the integration process. Additionally, the company’s approach maximizes energy capture from both sides of the cell and improves performance in various lighting conditions.
Hiking PV Technology produces Perovskite-Silicon Tandem Solar Cells
Hiking PV Technology, a Chinese startup, develops tandem solar cells to improve power output per square meter while reducing the cost of clean energy. By combining materials for proper light absorption, this startup increases the power conversion capacity of solar cells. Its technology supports a range of applications, including large-scale ground-mounted solar power plants, mountainous solar farms, and water-based installations.
Additionally, Hiking PV Technology offers decarbonization solutions for manufacturing processes and optimizes energy systems for industrial and agricultural enterprises. For residential customers, it delivers tailored solar solutions for flat roofs, sloped roofs, and other unique scenarios. Further, the startup also contributes to decarbonizing supply chains and encouraging green energy adoption across various sectors.
Discover all Solar Energy Trends, Technologies & Startups
As the solar energy landscape continues to evolve, innovative solutions emerge to tackle critical challenges in sustainability and energy access. From energy storage systems to off-grid technologies, startups play a vital role in reshaping how communities harness solar power. Decentralized models and smart asset management increase efficiency and reliability for a more equitable energy future.
Additionally, perovskite solar cells and bifacial panels promise to improve efficiency and reduce costs. By embracing these trends, we will accelerate the transition toward a resilient, sustainable energy ecosystem that empowers all communities, regardless of their geographic or economic circumstances.
The Solar Energy Trends & Startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our data-driven innovation & startup scouting process. Identifying new opportunities & emerging technologies to implement into your business goes a long way in gaining a competitive advantage.
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