Prof Stephen Sweeney meets Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change

Tuesday 20 December 2011

During his visit the Minister visited the photonics physics laboratories in the ATI where he saw how the group is working towards producing high efficiency photovoltaic cells for terrestrial and space applications, low energy solid-state lighting and higher efficiency lasers for use in telecommunications. The Minister also viewed active energy projects at the University, such as the biomass boiler at the Surrey Sports Park and the Solid-State Lighting installation in the ATI. The Minister concluded his visit by addressing the student body of the University to discuss how we can all address the 2050 climate challenges. 

Professor Sweeney commented "It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister to visit the department and to have the opportunity to showcase our research into how photonics can be used for energy generation and to minimise our impact on the climate. The Minister was clearly impressed with what he saw and enjoyed having an opportunity to engage with our postgraduate and undergraduate students."