About Us
Our mission is to dramatically increase the worldwide uptake of solar power.
Power Roll’s disruptive technology relies on a novel architecture called “microgrooves”.
Very similar to a hologram, designed in unique energy-channeling patterns.
Microgrooves are the ideal platform for low-cost film-based manufacture of two-terminal devices.
Our technology is protected by 21 separate patent families in 70+ countries to date.
We enable new printed electronic products using lightweight films and high-volume manufacturing processes.
Our Story
Our journey began with the fusion of ideas from high-volume manufacturing, advanced materials processing, and stealth tech.
2011
Microgroove technology
Dr. John Topping invents microgroove architecture and files the first patent
2012
Big Solar Ltd founded
Dr. John Topping and Saul Joicey establish the business to commercialise microgroove technology
2013
First investment
Ex-Eaga plc management team joins Big Solar and provides first substantial equity investment
2014
Proof of concept
Additional investment secured to continue proof of concept work and initial team members employed
2015
Solar film validated at lab scale
University of Texas validation, first external scientific paper published and further investment secured
2016
Roll-to-roll capability
Roll-to-roll vacuum coater delivered and commissioned
2017
Energy storage proof of concept
Initial manufacturing trials for capacitors completed with commercial partner
2018
Rapid improvement in solar film
Solar film efficiency reaches 7%. Company renamed to Power Roll Limited
2019
First commercial license
First commercial license and joint venture with Deki Electronics. Second paper published in Energy & Environmental Journal. Improved cell efficiency to 11%
2020
Second commercial agreement
Agreement signed with UK defence firm. Solar demonstrated on 20cm2 film samples
2021
Secured £5.8M funding for scale up and commercialisation
2021
Moved into new HQ and Pilot Plant
We are Trusted Partners
Our business model is focused on building an ecosystem of licensed manufacturing partners to fully exploit the versatility of our technology.
Our Team
Talent is the core of our success. Our team includes scientists, manufacturing experts and experienced leaders.
Market Development Partners
Collaborations and partnerships across industry, academia, and public research institutions.
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