University technology shownto Prince

SOLAR power technology being tested at Sheffield University was shown to the Prince of Wales at a Royal Garden Party in London.

Prof David Lidzey from the university’s department of physics and astronomy demonstrated the semi-transparent photovoltaic solar panels to a host of visitors, including the Prince of Wales and gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh.

The exhibition was part of the Prince’s Garden Party to Make a Difference event, which continues until September 19 and offers visitors the chance to view displays about the latest green technologies and ideas.

The solar panels, which are suitable for glass houses of all varieties and sizes, including greenhouses and conservatories, are being tested at a major solar farm on the roof of the university’s Hicks Building, which was opened last month by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg.

Part of a 120,000 investment, the Sheffield Solar Farm features 70 sqm of photovoltaic panels which will provide both the university and researchers and developers around the UK with the technology to field-test designs.

The Solar Farm forms part of a unique Sheffield University venture which academics have called Project Sunshine.

The institution said the project aims to “unite scientists in finding ways to harness the power of the sun as part of a bid to meet the increasing food and energy needs of the world’s population during a time of uncertain climate and global environment change”.

After returning from the garden party Prof Lidzey said: “It was wonderful that Prince Charles and Alan Titchmarsh showed enthusiasm for using transparent solar panels as a practical means to generate energy.

“It will be interesting to see whether they install them in their greenhouses. We are certainly interested in working with them in the future.”