The French company Dualsun, a pioneer in manufacturing hybrid solar panels, is developing new Internet of Things (IoT) solutions that optimize self-production and energy consumption in real time. Through this innovation, it aims to maximize the efficiency of solar systems, increase household autonomy, and optimize energy use.

Jérôme c, CEO of Dualsun, emphasizes that innovation is the core of its strategy, and for this reason, it is launching a range of IoT products that will enable users to maximize solar generation and optimize energy usage. “These smart technologies will allow real-time energy adjustments, increasing autonomy and reducing dependency on external sources of electricity,” they explain from Dualsun in a conversation with Strategic Energy Europe.

The development of IoT solutions by Dualsun represents a step forward in optimizing solar self-consumption. These technologies allow for real-time monitoring of energy production and consumption, dynamically adjusting the energy flow based on user needs and weather conditions. Thanks to these smart systems, energy waste is reduced, and the use of storage—whether in batteries or through thermal utilization—is improved.

Additionally, the company continues to refine its hybrid solar panels, combining electrical and thermal generation to enhance adaptability and efficiency, “making renewable energy even more accessible and profitable.”

“We design combined systems to maximize savings. Hybrid solar panels plus water-to-water heat pumps generate up to 90% savings on the energy bill,”  Mouterde says.

An integrated approach to energy efficiency

Dualsun has developed a portfolio of solar solutions that covers both photovoltaic generation and thermal integration. Among its main products are the SPRING4 hybrid panels, which generate electricity and heat simultaneously; the FLASH photovoltaic panels, designed for self-consumption and grid connection; and the PREASY Plug & Play, an intuitive solution for those looking to install their own panels simply and quickly.

The FLASH and SPRING4 panels use monocrystalline PERC cells, ensuring better performance in low-light conditions compared to polycrystalline or amorphous technologies.

However, the SPRING4 hybrid panel is based on a dual-function design with a monocrystalline photovoltaic layer and a patented heat exchanger that recovers residual heat from the photovoltaic cells to preheat domestic water and improve heat pump performance. By combining these functions, it significantly increases energy self-sufficiency while reducing heating costs.

“We design combined systems to maximize savings. The smart solar water heater analyzes energy needs, weather forecasts, and solar production in real time to optimize hot water usage, achieving significant savings,” the CEO of the company notes.

Production and commitment to local industry

The engineering and design of the panels are developed in Marseille, France, but production varies by model. The FLASH panels are manufactured in China, although they have previously been produced in factories in Belgium, France, and Germany, ensuring high quality standards.

In the case of SPRING4 hybrid panels, the manufacturing process is mixed. The photovoltaic component is produced in China, while the thermal elements and final assembly are carried out at the Jujurieux plant in France.

With over 50% of the added value of the SPRING4 hybrid panels being French, Dualsun ensures that these products are labeled “Made in France,” supporting local innovation and employment. This strategy not only reinforces the company’s presence in the European market but also contributes to the competitiveness of the solar industry in the region.

Challenges in the European solar industry and global competition

The growth of the solar industry in Europe faces significant challenges from Asian competition. According to Dualsun, Europe must take concrete actions to strengthen its photovoltaic sector and ensure its long-term viability.

Among the necessary strategies, the company highlights the importance of reinforcing local manufacturing through incentives for the production of low-carbon-footprint solar panels, as well as promoting investment in research and development to maintain technological leadership in efficiency and energy storage.

Another key aspect is the need to train a skilled workforce, ensuring that solar installers and technicians have certifications and training programs, such as those offered by the Dualsun Académie.

Furthermore, market regulation should focus on ensuring fair competition. “Measures must be implemented to protect European manufacturers from unfair pricing practices, without limiting innovation and collaboration,” they state.

Dualsun maintains that a strong solar industry in Europe is essential for energy sovereignty, job creation, and economic resilience. Despite regulatory challenges and market pressure, the company is confident that the commitment to innovation and energy efficiency will help consolidate solar energy as a sustainable and competitive solution.

They also point out that, specifically, the solar industry in France faces its own challenges, which makes it “crucial to rethink strategies” and take measures such as strengthening trust between property owners and installers, maintaining fair pricing structures to ensure market stability, and bringing energy generation closer to consumers.

In the context of reduced government support for the solar sector in France, Dualsun and other industry players have expressed concern about how these measures could affect the pace of solar energy installations in homes.

“The past few months have been difficult, but solar energy remains the future. The industry must adapt, innovate, and maintain momentum to make solar energy more competitive and resilient,”  Mouterde point out.

Dualsun’s short- and long-term goals

In the short term, the company aims to expand solar adoption by equipping more homes with hybrid panels and IoT solutions that optimize energy self-consumption. It also plans to strengthen professional training in the sector, ensuring there is an ecosystem ready for the expansion of the solar market.

In the long term, Dualsun aims to expand internationally and develop even smarter solar solutions, integrating artificial intelligence and new technologies to improve solar energy efficiency. The company also seeks to maintain its leadership in solar innovation, ensuring that Europe remains a benchmark in efficiency and sustainability.