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In May 2023, Peter Leeson, the mind behind Volt Solar Tile, visited the University of New South Wales’ (UNSW) renowned Solar Industrial Research Facility (SIRF) Department, gathering and sharing industry and technology information with the incredible engineers and PhDs from UNSW. This significant event marked a momentous convergence of innovation and heritage within the renewable energy sector, highlighting a profound legacy and ongoing advancements in photovoltaic (PV) research and development at UNSW.
For Peter, whose company is at the forefront of integrating solar power into everyday living with its innovative solar roof tiles, this visit was far from ordinary. It represented a personal highlight, a pilgrimage to the very place where the Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) technology - a milestone in the solar power industry - was invented. This revolutionary technology has played a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of solar panels, propelling solar energy into a new era of efficiency and affordability.
During his tour of the SIRF department, Peter was introduced to an array of state-of-the-art photovoltaics manufacturing and testing equipment. What was particularly striking was not just the advanced capabilities of the equipment itself, but the profound knowledge and expertise of the UNSW team. Their dedication to pushing the boundaries of solar technology was palpable, resonating strongly with Volt Solar Tile's mission to make solar energy more accessible and practical for residential use through their solar roof tiles.
The visit facilitated in-depth discussions about the current landscape of solar power technology and the potential for collaborative efforts to innovate further. These conversations were deemed crucial by Peter, especially in light of Volt Solar Tile's recent initiative to bring manufacturing to Australia. This move is part of a larger vision to invigorate the domestic industry, create jobs, and position Australia as a global leader in renewable energy technologies.
As Volt Solar Tile continues to harness cutting-edge technology to transform ordinary rooftops into sustainable energy powerhouses with their solar roof tiles, the connection to UNSW’s trailblazing research and development is unmistakable. The PERC cell, in particular, represents the kind of groundbreaking work that continues to inspire the renewable energy sector worldwide.
Peter's visit underscores a pivotal time in the solar power industry, emphasising the importance of collaboration, innovation, and shared knowledge. It highlights how bridging the gap between commercial application and academic research is not just beneficial, but necessary for the continued advancement of solar technology.
This momentous visit is more than just a meeting of minds; it's a melding of past achievements and future aspirations in the solar power arena. It serves as a testament to the ongoing relevance of UNSW's contributions to solar technology and reaffirms Volt Solar Tile’s commitment to driving the evolution of practical and accessible solar energy solutions for a greener, more sustainable future.