INDHEAP Research Presented at EuroSun 2026

The INDHEAP project was represented at EuroSun 2026, held in Freiburg, Germany, from 14 to 18 September 2026. Giorgos Papakokkinos from the Cyprus Institute (CYI) presented two research studies showcasing innovative approaches to renewable industrial heat.

Organised under the auspices of the International Solar Energy Society (ISES), EuroSun is one of Europe’s leading conferences dedicated to solar energy technologies and applications. Bringing together researchers, industry representatives, technology developers, and policymakers, the event provides a platform for sharing the latest advances in solar thermal energy, photovoltaics, energy storage, and renewable energy integration.

As part of the conference, INDHEAP contributed two studies addressing key challenges related to the deployment and operation of solar thermal technologies in industrial environments.

Industrial steam supplied by a hybrid solar thermal-photovoltaic system

Authors: Giorgos Papakokkinos, Alaric Montenon, Petros Petrou, Maria Papadimitriou, Valéry Vuillerme

The first study examined the use of a hybrid solar thermal-photovoltaic system for industrial steam generation. Using a dairy industry case study in Cyprus, the research assessed how concentrated solar thermal and photovoltaic technologies can be combined to reduce fuel consumption and emissions while meeting industrial steam requirements.

On the representativeness of simulation models for control studies of solar thermal fields

Authors: Giorgos Papakokkinos, Panayiotis Papadopoulos, Alaric Montenon

The second study investigated the representativeness of simulation models used in control studies of solar thermal fields. The research evaluated how measurement quality, modelling assumptions, and operational conditions influence controller performance, providing guidance for the development of reliable and efficient solar thermal control strategies.

Together, the two contributions demonstrate how technological innovation and advanced modelling can support the wider adoption of solar thermal energy in industry. By exploring hybrid solar systems for industrial steam production and improving the reliability of solar thermal field control studies, the research contributes to more efficient, flexible, and sustainable industrial energy systems.

The presented work aligns closely with INDHEAP’s mission to develop and demonstrate innovative solutions for solar thermal integration and thermal energy storage in industrial processes. Through research, demonstration activities, and collaboration across the value chain, the project contributes to the transition towards more sustainable, flexible, and low-carbon industrial energy systems.

We thank all participants who visited us and engaged in discussions throughout the conference. Events such as EuroSun provide valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, showcase project achievements, and strengthen collaboration within the European solar energy community.