Sunlight is the most abundant energy source on earth, now harnessed by a vast array of silicon solar panels on rooftops and in fields across the world. But a new generation of panels is emerging using a class of materials called perovskites, which can be thinner, lighter, less rigid and generate more power. The technology means solar panels could be integrated into new places such as car roofs, lampposts and even windows. It also could mean increased solar power generation without having to devote as much land to solar farms. Oxford PV, a UK developer of perovskite solar panels, says its tandem cells can generate 20 per cent more electricity from a given size of panel, and further gains are expected as the technology matures. The other type of panel uses perovskite on its own, which is 200-300 times thinner than the silicon in solar cells. Multiple layers of perovskite can be used, with each one tuned to absorb different wavelengths of light. This type of panel is much more flexible than those that use silicon.

FT 6th Oct 2025 read more "

State-owned Great British Energy expands solar investment program to multiple military sites, plus additional school and National Health Service (NHS) properties. GBP 75 million ($100 million) in new funding brings total expanded solar rollout scheme to GBP 255 million, following GBP 180 million hospital and school solar investment announced in March 2025.

PV Magazine 6th Oct 2025 read more "

Plans for a massive 196,000-panel solar energy development and battery storage system near Thurso have divided opinion among Groat social media users after news of the proposal was shared on Saturday. The proposed Lythmore Solar Farm, covering around 230 hectares of farmland some five kilometres from Thurso, would have an installed capacity of up to 300MW, combining 100MW of solar generation with 200MW of battery energy storage. The application, submitted by the Edinburgh-based Lythmore Solar Farm Limited, a subsidiary of Qair Scotland, is currently being considered by the Scottish Government after being submitted in August. If approved, the project would become the largest solar installation in Caithness, dwarfing the 15MW solar element within the Hollandmey hybrid renewable scheme near John O'Groats. Supporters of the scheme argue it would make good use of marginal land and contribute to Scotland's renewable energy targets, but many have raised concern about the changing character of the county. Denise Orvis said: "There is a reason people live here - its beauty, open spaces and wildlife," she said. "Why should Caithness and Sutherland be forfeiting their space for the mass building going on in England? Stop building."