Denmark’s Green Energy Group Unveils Lightweight CIGS Solar Panels for Commercial Vehicles

Danish startup Green Energy Group has launched an innovative vehicle-integrated photovoltaic (VIPV) solution tailored for trucks, trailers, and long-distance buses, utilizing ultra-thin, lightweight CIGS (copper-indium-gallium-selenide) solar panels.

Designed for diesel-powered commercial vehicles, the panels aim to reduce emissions, extend battery life, and improve fuel efficiency. The proprietary, glass-free CIGS panel construction is engineered for durability and adaptability in demanding transport environments.

According to CEO Martin Thaysen, the panels can reduce vehicle fuel consumption by 5%, a critical savings margin in an industry where “margins are razor-thin.” This fuel efficiency translates into a payback period of 10 to 18 months, offering a compelling business case for fleet operators.

The solution is especially suited for long-haul logistics, buses, and refrigerated trailers. A recent A/B field test conducted with customer Samat International—a Swedish arm of the French Samat Group—demonstrated that solar-equipped trucks delivered a payback in just 11 months through fuel savings alone. The annual energy output per truck was measured at 92.3 kWh.

As a result, over 40 trucks have already been fitted with Green Energy’s panels. Additional benefits observed during testing include a 21% reduction in idling time and a doubling of battery lifespan.

Other customers adopting the technology include Arla and DFDS (Denmark), Postnord (Sweden), MD Logistika (Czech Republic), and FlixBus (Germany).

“While decarbonization is important, many operators are focused on near-term fuel cost reductions,” said Thaysen. “With full fleet electrification still costly and complex, solar offers a practical, scalable bridge to a cleaner and more cost-efficient transport future.”

Green Energy offers several CIGS-based products for both vehicles and buildings. One of its featured VIPV kits includes three 55 W panels (totaling 165 W) connected to a 12 V system with a 40 A charge controller. The kit includes adhesive mounting, cabling, an IP67-rated fuse, and battery connectors. The panels measure 350 mm x 1,150 mm, with a 3 mm thickness (20 mm junction box) and a weight of under 2.4 kg/m².

Designed for harsh conditions, the panels operate between -40°C and 85°C, withstand mechanical loads up to 245 kg/m² (2,400 Pa), and are backed by a 10-year 90% performance guarantee, dropping to 80% after 25 years.

Thaysen highlights the advantages of CIGS over traditional silicon PV, particularly for mobile applications. “Trucks endure constant vibration, impact, variable weather, and shading. Our panels are lightweight, flexible, glass-free, fire-resistant, and optimized for partial light,” he explained.

Looking ahead, the company is developing a third-generation system expected to deliver 30–50% more power in the same footprint, alongside enhanced data features for fleet monitoring. “The technology is still maturing,” said Thaysen, “and we anticipate substantial efficiency gains over the next three to four years.”