DITF Invests In Solar To Cut Emissions, Boost Sustainability
The German Institutes of Textile and Fibre Research (DITF) has commissioned a new photovoltaic system at its Denkendorf site, marking a key step in its sustainability roadmap. With an installed capacity of 840 kWp, the solar units have been set up on building rooftops and covered parking areas. The project involved an investment of €1.6 million, of which €1.4 million came as state support from Baden-Württemberg.
The system was officially inaugurated on September 17, 2025, in the presence of DITF Chairman Prof. Michael R. Buchmeiser, Denkendorf Mayor Ralf Barth, and Michael Kleiner, Permanent Secretary at the state’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism.
“The coalition agreement for Baden-Württemberg envisions climate-neutral research facilities, setting a national benchmark. With €1.4 million in funding for this system, we aim to make a decisive contribution,” said Kleiner. Mayor Barth added that DITF’s efforts dovetail with the municipality’s energy transition initiatives, combining sustainability with cost efficiency.
The initiative is part of DITF’s transformation concept launched in 2024 aimed at reducing its ecological footprint through renewable energy, improved thermal insulation and employee mobility solutions. Charging stations, e-bike facilities and leasing options have already been introduced.
Beyond infrastructure, sustainability is also shaping DITF’s research agenda. The institute is leading two projects worth €4.2 million on recycling high-performance fibres like carbon and glass and converting conventional textile waste into high-quality yarns. Researchers are also exploring lignin, a paper industry by-product, for applications in carbon fibres, coatings and composites.
To steer the green transition, DITF created the position of Chief Sustainability Officer in 2024, with PD Dr.-Ing. Thomas Stegmaier currently driving initiatives to lower energy use, expand renewable adoption and embed sustainability across research and operations.
With the new solar installation, DITF underlines its ambition to be a role model for climate-neutral, resource-efficient research in Germany.
