Power Roll set to plug into Japanese market

A County Durham renewable energy company is expanding into international markets following a “landmark” deal to advance next-generation solar solutions.

Power Roll has signed a joint development agreement (JDA) with Japanese utility Tokyo Gas to deploy its perovskite solar film technology in Japan, marking the firm’s first move outside Europe.

The collaboration will focus on advancing product development, scaling manufacturing and building a supply chain to support future large-scale production for the Japanese market. 

It also aims to accelerate market readiness and identify commercial routes for the technology.

Power Roll’s lightweight and flexible solar film offers an alternative to traditional panels, with the ability to be applied to rooftops and building facades, making it particularly suited to urban environments.

The agreement will see pre-commercial trial deployments at Tokyo Gas facilities to assess real-world performance, as both organisations explore potential use cases and certification requirements across Japan.

Neil Spann, chief executive of Power Roll, said: "This Joint Development Agreement with Tokyo Gas represents a major milestone in our long standing relationship as we work to bring our game-changing solar film technology to market. 

“Tokyo Gas is a natural partner for us, thanks to their expertise, innovation, and commitment to driving clean energy solutions. 

“Together, we aim to establish Japan as the global leader in perovskite solar technology while addressing critical energy challenges globally. 

“This partnership underscores the long-term potential of our collaboration to create impactful solutions for renewable energy generation. 

“By combining Power Roll’s cutting-edge solar technology with Tokyo Gas’s market leadership, ability to scale and infrastructure, we are laying the groundwork for a new era in solar power that will redefine how and where solar energy is deployed.”

The deal represents a significant step in Power Roll’s growth ambitions, positioning the Seaham-based firm as a future global exporter of renewable technology.

It also supports Japan’s wider push to advance perovskite photovoltaics, as the country looks to strengthen its leadership in clean energy innovation and unlock new opportunities for scalable, low-cost solar solutions.

Kim McGuinness, the North East mayor, who led a regional delegation to Japan last November to champion opportunities for firms, including Power Roll, added: “This partnership between Power Roll and Tokyo Gas shows the depth of opportunity there is to secure and grow green energy investment and with that jobs in places like County Durham. 

“I was proud to meet with Tokyo Gas on behalf of Power Roll during our trade mission to Japan last year, when I saw first-hand the global appetite there is in our cutting-edge technology, so I am delighted it has now led to this agreement. 

“North East England has the people, the technology and the spirit of innovation to become the home of the green energy revolution. 

“Our engineers and our businesses are making a real difference on the global stage, and we are backing them to deliver the job security and growth opportunities that brings.”

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