What is this ‘Dundee Connection’? In the 1970s Dundee scientists pioneered the development of the first thin-film silicon solar cells, leading to solar panels able to convert energy from the Sun into electricity. Today they work closely with international partners on the next generation of solar materials based on nanocrystals and polymers.

Why solar power? Solar cells (photovoltaics) have many advantages; they produce no CO₂ and are ‘plug and play’ – giving instant electricity whenever the sun shines.

… so what are the problems?  The sun doesn’t always shine, there can be pollution issues in the life-cycle, and they are not yet commercially competitive with fossil fuels and nuclear power.

Join us in Chambers Coffee House and Restaurant at 7 pm on Monday April 26th where Steve Reynolds will discuss some of his latest research towards the development of cheaper more efficient solar cells and panels. These advances in technology are central to a reduction in carbon emissions, and solar electricity will be required to provide a significant fraction of the World’s energy needs in the future.

This is a free event and no tickets are issued. Just turn up on the night!

Once the preserve of a minority, environmental concerns have captured the public interest. Films like An Inconvenient Truth have done a lot to inform the public of the immediacy of the threats. However, climate change is resulting in different effects in different parts of the planet. How will climate change affect us, here in Scotland?

This is your chance to find out!

If you missed Dr Tom Ball (Department of Geography, UoD) giving his talk on Global Warming and Flooding in Scotland, you can catch up now! On our YouTube channel or view the first clip below.