EPIC Begins Standardization Projects to Boost European Photonics
Brussels, Monday, 17 February 2025.
The European Photonics Industry Consortium (EPIC) initiates new standardization efforts to enhance technology adoption and competitiveness in European markets, aiming for streamlined advancements in the photonics sector.
Strategic Industry Development
As the world’s leading photonics industry association, EPIC is leveraging its extensive network of 20603 followers [1] to drive forward crucial standardization initiatives. Operating from its Paris headquarters with a dedicated team of 11-50 employees [1], EPIC’s latest initiative comes at a time when the photonics sector is experiencing significant transformation, particularly in the area of semiconductorization [6]. This strategic move aligns with recent industry developments, including GlobalFoundries’ 700 million investment in silicon photonics announced on February 5, 2025 [6].
Sustainability and Innovation Focus
The consortium is actively addressing sustainability challenges through dedicated workgroups, with an upcoming sustainability meeting scheduled for February 21, 2025 [1]. The meeting will feature key discussions on waste reduction and energy conservation initiatives, with participation from external sustainability advisor Indre Blauzdziunaite and representatives from AEMtec [1]. This focus on sustainability coincides with broader industry trends toward energy-efficient solutions, exemplified by recent innovations such as Q.ANT’s development of optical processing units designed to reduce AI system energy consumption by a factor of 30 [6].
Market Opportunities and Workforce Development
The European photonics sector is experiencing robust job market growth, with significant opportunities across various specializations. Current market data shows 21402 openings for Optical Engineers and 21288 positions for Laser Engineers [1]. The industry’s expansion is particularly evident in specialized roles, with 19968 laboratory manager positions and 48969 scientist positions available across Europe [1]. This growth is supported by EPIC’s comprehensive approach to ecosystem development, including market reports, technical workshops, and coordinated EU funding proposals [1].
Future Outlook and Industry Collaboration
The standardization initiative comes amid significant industry events, including the recent Photonics West conference which attracted over 24,000 attendees [6]. Industry experts including Scott Jordan, head of photonics at Physik Instrumente, have highlighted the growing ‘semiconductorization of photonics’ as a key trend [6]. This transformation is particularly significant as the industry addresses the current imbalance where ‘80% of value lies in testing, assembly, and packaging, with only 20% in chip manufacturing’ according to Leo Y. Lin from EXFO [6].