InES – Participation at ISES Solar World Congress 2023

The International Solar Energy Society (ISES) is well-known among solar energy experts. This society hosts the esteemed Solar World Congress every two years, a hallmark event in the field. The latest congress was held from October 30 to November 4, 2023, in New Delhi, India's dynamic capital. This event drew together over 300 registered participants, including keynote speakers, plenary speakers, and poster presenters from 38 countries, for a week of rich discussions and networking. The congress offered unparalleled opportunities for attendees to exchange ideas, receive feedback, seek inspiration, and establish future partnerships.

The range of sessions was comprehensive, covering topics from PV Cell Technologies and Solar Thermal Power to Solar Buildings, Urban and Neighborhood Design, Sector Coupling, Rural Energy Supply, and Renewable and Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems. These discussions focused on the latest solar energy developments and strategies for advancing a just and sustainable energy transition.

The Institute for Energy Systems (InES) had a notable presence at the Solar World Congress (SWC). Two researchers had the opportunity to present their findings orally, while two others displayed their work through posters. This successful participation highlighted InES's diverse research portfolio, which spans both national and international contexts. Domestically, projects include developing reinforcement learning based control strategies for energy systems in apartment buildings (STROM) and analyzing thermomechanical stress in insulated glass flat plate collectors (flexLAC). Internationally, the focus shifts to evaluating energy services for solar energy use in informal settlements in sub-Saharan Africa (SEED) and developing new concepts for energy-efficient building renovations in Kyrgyzstan's rural high-altitude areas (Ökoflussplan).

A special feature of this year's congress was the concurrent meeting of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), a global organization dedicated to promoting solar energy with members from over 100 countries. This provided a unique opportunity to gain insights into ISA's operations, engage with policymakers, and listen to their discussions and presentations.

The timing of the congress, just two weeks before Diwali, added to the vibrant atmosphere. Despite the poor air quality, the festive decorations, the availability of traditional gifts, and the exceptional hospitality made for a memorable experience. Congress participants enjoyed delicious buffets with traditional Indian foods and were introduced to Indian culture through a music and dance performance at the Presidential Dinner, marking a fitting end to a positively impactful conference.