UK-Sweden ‘POP-PV’ Project Launches to Power Underutilized Building Spaces with Power Roll’s Lightweight Perovskite Films

August 9, 2026

University of Sheffield UK

Overview

A collaborative international research project, ‘POP-PV,’ has been launched by UK and Swedish institutions. The project aims to advance Power Roll’s micro-groove solar film technology, developing lightweight photovoltaic solutions for commercial and industrial rooftops and building sides currently unsuitable for conventional PV systems due to structural constraints. The initiative focuses on exploring advanced interface materials like self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) to enhance perovskite solar cell stability, manufacturability, and scalability.

In Depth

Key Findings

A collaborative international research project, dubbed ‘POP-PV,’ has been launched by institutions in the UK and Sweden. At its core, the project aims to evolve Power Roll’s innovative micro-groove solar film technology to introduce lightweight, flexible perovskite solar cells onto underutilized rooftops and sides of commercial and industrial buildings. These areas have traditionally been inaccessible to conventional photovoltaic systems due to structural limitations. This initiative seeks to overcome architectural constraints, significantly expanding opportunities for solar power generation in urban environments.

Technical / Clinical Details

The POP-PV project will leverage Power Roll’s proprietary micro-groove design to develop ultra-thin and lightweight perovskite solar cell films. This design enables installation in locations where traditional panels are too heavy or on curved surfaces, unlocking new deployment possibilities.
Research and development efforts will explore advanced interface materials, such as self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). These materials play a critical role in optimizing charge transport efficiency between the perovskite layer and electrodes while simultaneously enhancing the device’s long-term stability.
The project also focuses on improving the stability of perovskite solar cells against moisture and heat, a primary challenge, as well as achieving scalability for large-volume manufacturing and establishing cost-effective production processes. This may involve the application of roll-to-roll manufacturing techniques.

Background & Context

While solar power adoption is growing, many commercial and industrial facilities face challenges in installing conventional heavy silicon panels due to roof load limits, complex geometries, or aesthetic regulations. Lightweight and flexible perovskite solar cell films offer a novel solution to this untapped market. Power Roll’s technology, coupled with international research collaboration, is a crucial step to maximize the potential of this market, promoting broader integration of solar power into architectural structures.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

The success of the POP-PV project has the potential to transform the landscape of solar power. If lightweight and easy-to-install perovskite films become commercially viable, numerous urban buildings could become energy generators, accelerating the proliferation of decentralized energy systems. This will significantly contribute to achieving renewable energy targets and enhancing buildings’ energy self-sufficiency. The international collaboration is expected to accelerate technological development and enable rapid deployment to global markets, opening new frontiers for solar power generation and fostering a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.

Source: https://sheffield.ac.uk/mps/news/new-international-project-targets-lightweight-solar-power-underused-rooftops-and-sides-buildings

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