A bright future for photonics
The photonics sector will receive fresh investment under Horizon 2020. Defined as a Key Enabling Technology (KET), the sector, along with microelectronics and nanoelectronics, will receive an estimated €1.5bn under the next framework programme. It’s estimated the current global photonics market is worth €300bn, with Europe responsible for 20% of the worldwide market share.
In order to better benefit from Horizon 2020 funding, the European photonics industry has announced the creation of a public private partnership (PPP) that will enable the sector to work more closely together, whilst enabling long-term investment from both public and private bodies. The PPP is being seen as cornerstone of collaboration and a key component of the sector’s participation in the next framework programme.
The PPP was announced at the AGM of the industry’s representative body, Photonics21, in Brussels, which was also attended by the European Commissioner for Digital Agenda, Neelie Kroes. According to Photonics21, the partnership will bring significant economic benefits to the continent whilst helping to keep Europe competitive. Speaking to delegates, President Michael Mertin said the PPP was a symbol of “commitment to strive for photonics innovation in Europe” and would “reinforce the co-operation between public and private sectors”.
At the launch of the PPP, Commissioner Kroes outlined the importance of the photonics sector and welcomed the new development.
“From lighting to laser manufacturing; from communications to cancer detection; photonics matters to our society, our economy, and our people. It’s not just a key enabling technology; it’s one where Europe’s industry is strong and I intend to keep it that way.
“I first proposed an ambitious PPP in photonics a couple of years ago and since then there’s been very good progress. Now we have before us a clear proposal; a roadmap to reinforce leadership in research and innovation. I know over 60 photonics companies and research institutes are already fully committed; I hope that in due course all of you will sign up. So thank you to Michael Mertin and all those taking part,” the Commissioner said.
Kroes described the new PPP as “strategic”, helping to financially support Europe’s innovative base in an industry employing 290,000 people. It’s estimated that 10% of all jobs in Europe have a direct or indirect relationship with the KET and Kroes highlighted five elements for success.
“First, the need to commit. I am doing so on behalf of the Commission; I hope you can do so too.
“Second, we must pay more attention to innovative small and medium-sized enterprises. With 5,000 of them active in photonics, let’s involve them more in the value chain, and better meet their needs.
“Third, let’s not work in silos. Photonics can help solve our societal challenges, like healthcare or climate change, so we need to engage more closely with those communities too.
“Fourth, funding. The legislators are still discussing Horizon 2020 and it’s clear that the overall result will be lower than the European Commission proposal. However, I am confident that the photonics budget in Horizon 2020 will still see a significant increase on the current programme, FP7.
“Fifth, I know your most important resource is people; human capital. Yet not enough people are studying to become scientists, engineers or entrepreneurs. That’s bad for our competitiveness, and bad for our employment,” Kroes outlined.
However, despite increased funding for the industry from Horizon 2020, the Commissioner said the KET would still need other monetary sources for research in Europe. It’s understood new streams of investment are likely to include the European Investment Bank and regional authorities providing cohesion finance. Kroes also recognised a growing skills gap in the industry in Europe that would continue to hinder further innovation, although added the PPP resembled a major step forward.
“I know that the skills gap is already affecting and constraining the photonics industry and I hope you will be able to provide the solution too. I’ve already seen great initiatives from you – like bringing the Photonics Explorer to classrooms. Our Grand Coalition for Digital Jobs is a new way of working together to solve that problem; I hope the photonics community will be able to make a pledge for that coalition too. It’s in your interest and mine.”
And the Commissioner closed: “You will soon be ready with your PPP proposal. I expect that you will be able to formally submit it to us within the next few weeks, and we can look forward to a Photonics PPP right from the beginning of Horizon 2020.
“This PPP will be a huge step forward and our preparations are nearly complete. It can be a cornerstone of Horizon 2020; a lasting partnership between sectors and a stimulant to European innovation. Our economy needs it, our society needs it, so let’s take that step forward.”
Neelie Kroes
