Cambridge solar spin-out powers up funding

A Cambridge-based clean energy innovator has secured major investment to accelerate the development of solar technology.

Cambridge Photon Technology (CPT), a spin-out from the University of Cambridge, has raised £1.56 million in pre-Series A funding to advance its patented photon-multiplier technology. 

The round combines £926,000 in private investment with a £630,000 Innovate UK grant through the Clean Energy and Climate Technologies programme.

Bosses say CPT’s technology increases the power output of conventional silicon solar panels by up to 15 per cent by converting wasted sunlight into usable light. 

They add the funding, backed by investors including Cambridge Enterprise Ventures and Spectrum Impact, will support research and development expansion, testing with global partners and preparations for pilot deployment ahead of a larger Series A raise. 

CPT aims to bring its first product to market by 2028.

Dr Claudio Marinelli, CPT chief executive, said: “This investment demonstrates strong private-sector confidence in CPT’s technology and vision.

“Attracting backing from leading investors across the UK, India and Asia underlines the global relevance of our approach and its potential to transform solar efficiency at scale. 

“The Innovate UK programme provides a powerful layer of support, helping us bridge early-stage development and commercial readiness. Together, this funding positions CPT to accelerate product readiness and bring a breakthrough British innovation to the global clean-energy market.”

Chris Gibbs, investment director at Cambridge Enterprise Ventures, added: “Cambridge Photon Technology exemplifies the kind of transformative innovation needed to accelerate the global transition to sustainable energy and address climate challenges. 

“We are proud to have supported the company from the beginning and now in this next exciting phase of its journey.”

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