A Swiss startup devises an intelligent photovoltaic façade that tracks and moves with the sun

A Swiss startup, Zurich Soft Robotics, has devised a photovoltaic façade that tracks and moves with the sun. The company calls Solskin the first commercially available intelligent climate-adaptive building envelope.

Developed by architects and robotics researchers at Swiss research university ETH Zurich, the Solskin hardware comprises adjustable photovoltaic modules that serve a dual purpose: producing renewable electricity while also shading the interior.

The PV modules are mounted on a modular structure that includes all the wiring. The dynamic, lightweight system can be used on both new buildings and façade renovations. Through testing, the team also has confirmed the system’s extreme weather resistance.

When placed in front of a building’s windows, Solskin can reduce building energy consumption by up to 80%, according to ETH research. The solar-tracking modules produce up to 40% more electricity than comparable façade systems. In some cases, such as a south-facing glazed office space in Zurich, the Solskin system can cover the building’s entire energy consumption.

Zurich Soft Robotics’ recent innovation, Solskin AI, makes the system even smarter by leveraging predictive self-learning algorithms. With Solskin AI, the system can control the position of the solar modules in real time—achieving optimal energy efficiency and ensuring the comfort of occupants behind the Solskin facades. The use of AI helps address user preferences, weather conditions, and energy consumption.

Solskin’s moving elements constantly adapt to the environment, leading to increased comfort and reduced energy consumption—which will become increasingly critical with climate change.

All Solskin systems will have continuous AI updates, ensuring the energy-efficient, intelligent building envelopes are always up to date, with a focus on longevity and sustainability.