Renewable energy and products and services for increasing energy efficiency enjoy the benefits of a long tradition and strong foundations in Baden-Württemberg. The excellent research network in various sectors of renewable energy is an essential building block for the successful development of renewable energy sources and the strong position of Baden-Württemberg- based companies in this sector.

The research and development establishments of Baden- Württemberg have made a name for themselves worldwide particularly in the field of solar energy. With approximately 830 employees, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in Freiburg is the largest solar research institute in Europe. A multitude of significant pioneering innovations and develop- ments have been achieved thanks to the research and develop- ment work carried out by Freiburg‟s scientists. Through its experience spanning across more than 20 years in the fields of solar energy and hydrogen technology, the Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research (ZWS) has become one of the leading European institutes in these fields. The Centre operates one of Europe‟s largest outdoor solar test fields in Widderstall and is a world leader in the field of CIS thin-layer technology.

Baden-Württemberg-based researchers also demonstrate pioneering spirit in the field of wind energy. The first German wind test field of the University of Stuttgart in the Swabian Alb bears testimony to the great expertise in the field of research in this sector.

In total, 55 institutes and centres carry out innovative research and development work in the field of renewable energy, such as the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the German Aerospace Centre in Stuttgart.