A LEADING academic in the world of photovoltaics is calling on the North East to donate its solar energy data to help give a valuable insight into the best uses of renewable energy.
Dr Alastair Buckley, founder of the Sheffield Solar Farm, will be telling delegates at the national Solar Flair conference, in Durham, how the data his team is collecting is vital to help work out how solar power is best used.
The solar farm, based at Sheffield University, is at the forefront of efforts to discover the best way to use photovoltaic cells as well as testing new solar cell technology developed at the university.
By collecting solar energy generation data from people across the country who have installed solar panels, Dr Buckley and his team is able to feedback to people whether their panels are working properly and which panels are best for usage in the UK.
“This is really important data,” said Dr Buckley. “In the long run it will tell us how fast solar panels degrade in the UK and how often solar energy components fail.
“It’s also important to figure out the best way to use the energy that solar panels generate ie whether it’s worth trying to store it in batteries for times when it’s not sunny and if it’s “worth” more when it’s used in the building where it is created.
“These might seem like simple things to figure out, but in the long run they will be really important as more and more solar panels are installed.”
Dr Buckley is just one of several speakers attending the Solar Flair event on November 24, which has been organised by the County Durham Development Company (CDDC).
Other speakers include Dr Stephen Taylor from the European Space Agency and Franz Ziering, vice president of Bosch Solar Energy AG.
Delegates from across the country will hear about the latest advances and opportunities in the photovoltaic industry as well as improvements in solar technology and the research behind thin-film and organic photovoltaics.
Stewart Watkins, managing director of CDDC, said: “Dr Buckley and his team have gained a reputation for excellence within the photovoltaic field and we’re delighted that he’ll be giving a real insight into the industry at Solar Flair.
“The event will be particularly useful for businesses looking to develop in this cutting edge field or gain insider tips to expand their companies further.”
To book a place at the event, or for more information, visit www.solarflairpv.co.uk
