News Article
University Of Salford Opens Solar Power Research Facility
The University of Salford has officially opened its Solar Research Plant which will produce small batches of new solar panels to help develop the North West clean energy sector.
Offering free consultancy and R&D based on the University's expertise in the energy sector, the new facility will give businesses in the region a space where they can test new designs, configurations and installation methods for solar cells.
The Salford-based site is fully equipped with industry standard production machinery imported from Italy, and is staffed by experienced academics and technicians. While it is capable of turning out a production line of panels, the University believes that it can be most effectively used in the same manner as the Salford Energy House, where a rebuilt terraced property has been installed inside a climate-controlled lab and is used by businesses to test the latest in energy efficient technology.
At the launch event on 16 April, businesses were able to see the first panel roll off the production line and hear from research staff. A number of North West businesses are already in talks about using the site and these were represented at the event.
There was also a talk from charity Solar Aid which is working with Salford to provide solar lamps to help children in remote African communities study at night.
Richard Fitton, Energy Technical Consultant at the University said: "We're working hard to reduce heating and electricity demand using our Energy House and this solar facility adds clean generation to the service we can provide to businesses.
