SHEEFT: releasing the solar potential of Europe’s flat rooftops

The Solar HEliup Energy for Flat roofTop (SHEEFT) project is setting a new benchmark in renewable energy thanks to the support of the Innovation Fund. Traditionally, flat rooftops with low bearing capacities have been overlooked for solar installations because they cannot support the heavy weight of standard photovoltaic installations and mounting systems. Fortunately, SHEEFT tackles this problem as it manufactures cutting-edge, lightweight photovoltaic (PV) panels specifically designed for flat rooftops, allowing for the installation of more solar panels and in turn, enabling the uptake of renewable energy and lowering carbon emissions.  

Led by the French start-up, HELIUP, the project uses ultra-thin glass technology in its innovative Stykon® PV panel. This panel is tailor-made for large existing commercial, industrial and logistic buildings with low load-bearing capacities. Unlike conventional solar panels, SHEEFT’s panels are glued directly to waterproof membranes, cutting weight by 60% without compromising performance or reliability. 

‘The SHEEFT project addresses the unrealised needs of buildings traditionally unsuitable for solar installations due to structural limitations’, explained Yannick Veschetti, CEO of HELIUP. ‘

The support of the Innovation Fund was crucial to scaling this solution, accelerating our ability to contribute substantially to Europe’s decarbonisation objectives’.  

The factory is now fully operational and meeting its targets, marking a major milestone in demonstrating Europe’s ability to industrialise innovative solutions rapidly. Reaching this point required selecting equipment and a production site, securing permits, managing procurement, recruiting skilled staff, and maintaining strict control over budget and timeline. These achievements reflect the dedication and coordinated efforts of the entire project team. 

Environmental and local benefits 

Supported by a €3.22 million grant from the Innovation Fund, the project will deliver substantial environmental and economic benefits. Notably, the technology harnesses the untapped potential of pre-existing building rooftops once unable to use PV panels to generate clean energy.  

Over a 10-year operational period, SHEEFT will generate approximately 3.76 terawatt-hours (TWh) of clean electricity. Based on an average EU household consumption of 3.76 megawatt hours, this is enough to supply an equivalent of 100 000 EU households, significantly enhancing Europe’s energy independence and sustainability. Also within a 10-year operational period, the project expects to avoid emitting over 360 000 tonnes of CO₂, which is the equivalent of eliminating the annual carbon emissions of approximately 20 000 EU households.   

SHEEFT also champions key industrial growth within Europe. Its pilot line for pre-production and product development in Bourget-du-Lac, and its 4 000 m² production line in Le Cheylas, one of the largest production capacities in France, contribute significantly to local economic growth and employment stability by creating 100 direct jobs.  

Looking forward and scaling up 

The next steps focus on commercial development to fully leverage the 100 megawatt-peak annual capacity of Le Cheylas plant by 2030. To this end, a gradual ramp-up is planned, expanding from one to three shifts while maintaining high yield and efficiency.  

HELIUP will also launch a second phase beyond the Innovation Fund project, scaling industrial production units by five to ten times their initial size from 2026 onwards. This expansion will drive further cost optimisation and increased adoption of lightweight solar technology. With rapid execution and strong European roots, the project continues to show its potential to be a highly credible player in the clean energy sector. 

SHEEFT is a startup-led initiative bringing certified French energy technology to market via a new 100 MWp production line. With rapid execution and strong European roots, it’s a credible player in the energy sector. 

About the Innovation Fund   

The Innovation Fund, financed by EU Emissions Trading System revenues, is one of the world’s largest funding programmes for the demonstration of innovative low-carbon technologies. The Fund focuses on highly innovative clean technologies and big flagship projects with European added value that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.