Protech is actively participating in the international SmileCity project, which aims to develop and implement sustainable solutions for modern European cities based on circular economy principles. The project focuses on innovative technologies that enhance urban energy efficiency, resilience, and preparedness for future challenges.
International Collaboration and Project Progress
The project is implemented through close cooperation within an international consortium of partners. Regular meetings are organized to coordinate activities, review progress, and share research results.
Last week, one of the key project meetings—the SmileCity General Assembly—took place in Rome and was hosted by Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche. During the meeting, partners reviewed the progress achieved in the first year of the project, presented key results, and discussed the next technological and strategic steps.
Testing of Next-Generation Photovoltaic Technologies
One of Protech’s main contributions to the project is the testing and validation of next-generation photovoltaic (PV) module technologies.
All newly developed PV module technologies – including lightweight solar panels made from recyclable polymers and fully recyclable glass/glass solutions are rigorously tested and validated in accordance with international IEC standards.
The testing process evaluates:
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electrical performance and energy generation efficiency,
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mechanical strength and structural reliability,
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long-term operational stability under real-world conditions.
This ensures that the innovative modules meet the highest international quality and safety requirements before being integrated into urban infrastructure.
Contributing to More Sustainable European Cities
Protech’s activities within the project directly support the core objective of SmileCity: to strengthen collaboration between science and industry and to create more sustainable, energy-efficient, and circular economy-driven cities across Europe.
Through our participation, we are not only testing advanced technologies but also actively shaping the future of urban energy solutions—ensuring they are safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible.
