Federal Innovation Prize for the solar shoe

Andreas Meyer has developed a shoe that allows safe access to solar roofs without damaging them. For this, the man from the Palatinate region was awarded the "Federal Prize for Outstanding Innovative Achievements in Craftsmanship".

Andreas Meyer from Rockenhausen in the Palatinate region has developed numerous specialized solutions throughout his career – from the world's fastest camera track for the film industry to a vehicle entry aid for dogs. The toolmaker and mechanical engineer's latest project: a system that enables safe walking on photovoltaic modules – the solar shoe. Solarco.shoe.

Anyone entering his workshop quickly understands how his ideas take shape: metalworking machines, CNC technology, laser cutting systems, and additive manufacturing are all readily available in close proximity. It was in this environment that the now 67-year-old invested five years of development work in the solar shoe.

He was awarded this at the beginning of March. International Crafts Fair (IHM) in Munich with the "Federal Prize for outstanding innovative achievements in the skilled trades" by the Federal Ministry of Economics . 

Dirk Fischer (center) and Dr. Till Mischler (right), President and Managing Director of the Chamber of Skilled Crafts of the Palatinate, with Andreas Meyer. Photo: © Chamber of Skilled Crafts of the Palatinate

The solar shoe was developed by and for tradespeople. "It offers installers a secure footing, even on steep roofs, and enables the installation, maintenance, and cleaning of PV systems without damaging their sensitive modules. The integrated, individually adjustable tilt compensation up to 18 degrees also noticeably reduces the strain on joints and ligaments," explains Andreas Meyer, describing his innovation. Visually, the system resembles a snowboard. The user clips their own safety shoe into a modular binding, "allowing for flexible, multiple use within installation teams." A specially developed studded structure on the underside provides slip resistance, while the enlarged contact area distributes the load evenly. "This is a crucial factor in reliably preventing microcracks in PV modules."

Andreas Meyer's path into the photovoltaic industry began in 2019 through a request from a family member: a relative who worked in solar panel cleaning was looking for a gentle way to access the modules. From an early prototype, several years of development eventually resulted in a mature product. Testing at the Fraunhofer Institute and validation by TÜV Rheinland in 2022 and 2023 confirmed its slip resistance and material compatibility. Today, the shoe is protected by international patents.

Since Meyer initially focused his resources on technical development, marketing played a subordinate role. "The project gained visibility primarily through trade fairs, personal exchange formats, and networking," the entrepreneur reports. The biggest boost ultimately came with the award at the IHM (International Trade Fair for Metalworking). "Inquiries from the market have increased dramatically," Meyer emphasizes.

The entrepreneur is supported by the Innovation and Technology Consultant (BIT) of the Chamber of Crafts of the PalatinateBenjamin Hilmer, who also assists him with other projects, is involved. These include the planned market launch of the "LoungeTable," a suspended furniture concept with rope-based seating elements. At the same time, Andreas Meyer is working with master roofer Udo Heyl, owner of C. Voegeli GmbH from Kaiserslautern, on the further development of the "LeiKoSi" ladder head safety device, which gained recognition through the TV show "Die Höhle der Löwen" (Shark Tank Germany).

Around four decades ago, Meyer began his career in the film industry. His camera systems became an international standard. They were used in film productions, fashion shows, and major sporting events such as the Olympic Games. For over a decade, he worked worldwide, including in Paris, Amsterdam, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Tokyo. "At times, I ran a company with up to 100 employees."

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After closing his company in 2004 and a stint at the Dekra Academy, he returned to his core competency: developing practical technical solutions that make work processes safer and more efficient. His clients include, among others, the professional fire brigade. "Perseverance, analytical thinking, and a deep technical understanding – this combination has shaped my professional development," the native of the Palatinate region says of himself. And his wealth of ideas remains boundless, Meyer emphasizes: "Further concepts are ready in the workshop, just waiting to take shape." 

Federal and state prizes The Federal Innovation Awards for outstanding innovative achievements in the skilled trades They have been awarded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy since 1989.

The Bavarian State Prize The award has been presented since 1952 for outstanding design and technical achievements. In 2026, the state prizes, each worth €5.000, were awarded to a total of 21 exhibitors: 14 in the design category and seven in the technology category. Federal Innovation Prize There were ten winners.

Anyone interested in applying can inquire at their local Chamber of Skilled Crafts. More information about the You can read about the 2026 award winners here.

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