Pictured above: (l/r) Keith Bowen, non-executive director and acting director of engineering of Circadian Solar, with David Grindrod, of the University of Warwick Science Park, at Circadian Solar's test site in Coventry

A Coventry company has become a shining example in the field of solar energy production thanks to a series of bright ideas.

Circadian Solar, based at Sovereign Court at the University of Warwick Science Park, specialises in developing, manufacturing and marketing solar energy systems which can be used in regions of the world with strong direct sunlight for on-grid and off-grid power generation as well as for water treatment applications.

The company, which is a spin-out from the University of Warwick, is in the research and development stage of several projects that could shape the face of energy production across the globe in years to come.

One project due to start shortly will see a test station installed in Cyprus with the aim of producing clean drinking water solely through solar power. The technology could be of huge significance to the Mediterranean island which currently imports around 50 per cent of its drinking water.

The system could also be rolled out across countries that suffer from poor quality drinking water, including regions in Africa and the cost efficient nature of the solution means it is also suitable for poorer economies. 

Keith Bowen, non-executive director and acting director of engineering of Circadian Solar, said: "Solar technology has made huge advances over the past few years and the systems we are producing are now twice as efficient as the old ones.

"The minimal running costs of solar energy production compared to other forms of power can have a significant impact on the economy of island communities that are dependent on water imports.

"But water purification is just one example of the potential of this technology. The technology we produce is mainly aimed at the industrial and commercial sector but it could also be adapted to the residential market."

The project in Cyprus is just one of three test sites currently being operated by Circadian Solar. In addition to the site at the University of Warwick Science Park, in Sir William Lyons Road, the company has also agreed a deal to conduct solar cell material testing in Lisbon, Portugal in partnership with the University of Lisbon.

The company, which employs 20 people, is also in the process of constructing an eye-catching six by five metre solar panel at its Science Park base for energy production testing purposes.

David Grindrod, of the University of Warwick Science Park, said: "Circadian Solar are producing some very exciting technology which could potentially have important, far-reaching and positive consequences.

"The innovative nature of the technology continues the proud tradition of cutting edge ideas that have been produced at the University of Warwick Science Park.

"We are delighted to see the success Circadian Solar have achieved to date and we are sure they will continue to thrive in the future."