Swift Solar, an MIT-affiliated startup, has successfully completed the first real-world field test of its advanced perovskite tandem solar technology during a U.S. Department of Defense exercise. Integrated into a mobile microgrid designed for rapid deployment in disaster zones and military environments, the high-efficiency solar cells demonstrated their durability and performance. This milestone marks a significant step toward the commercialization of lightweight, flexible solar modules, with the company planning to scale domestic production within the next two years to serve defense, aerospace, and utility sectors.
The demonstration took place during the “Cyber Fortress” exercise in Virginia Beach, where Swift Solar’s technology was part of a Rapid Deployment Hybrid MicroGrid developed by Resilient Energy & Infrastructure. The exercise proved that the company’s U.S.-manufactured perovskite tandem solar cells could reliably provide clean energy alongside other power sources in demanding field conditions. This successful trial underscores the potential of these next-generation solar solutions to enhance energy resilience for national defense and emergency response operations.
Founded in 2019 by CEO Joel Jean and five colleagues, Swift Solar grew out of research conducted at the MIT Energy Initiative. The team’s goal was to overcome the limitations of traditional silicon-based solar technology by utilizing perovskites—abundant, cost-effective materials known for their superior light absorption and flexibility. Unlike standard solar panels, the company’s design employs two layers of perovskite that capture different segments of the solar spectrum, significantly boosting energy efficiency while remaining light enough for versatile applications.
One of the primary hurdles for perovskite technology has been the transition from laboratory research to mass manufacturing. Swift Solar addresses this challenge with a proprietary deposition process designed for scalability and lower production costs. Following the successful Department of Defense demonstration, the company plans to ramp up its domestic manufacturing capabilities, with full commercial production expected to begin within the next 24 months.
Beyond military applications, the startup is attracting interest from diverse industries, including satellite operations, telecommunications, and mobility. Swift Solar has also entered a strategic partnership with Eni Plenitude, the renewable energy division of the Italian energy giant Eni S.p.A. The two companies are launching a pilot program to validate the high-efficiency technology at a utility scale, representing a major step toward long-term supply agreements and global market entry.