A University of Cambridge spinout developing photon-multiplier technology to boost the efficiency of silicon solar panels, has secured a £1.56m pre-Series A investment to accelerate commercial readiness of its breakthrough energy technology.
Cambridge Photon Technology (CPT) is engineering a material that converts high-energy photons — which are typically lost as heat in conventional photovoltaic systems — into infrared photons that silicon cells can absorb. By capturing and redirecting previously wasted sunlight, the company aims to enable standard solar modules to generate more electricity without requiring any redesign.
CPT describes its material as a “drop-in solution” that integrates directly into existing panel manufacturing processes, positioning the technology as a scalable route to improving solar performance at a time of rising global demand for clean energy.
The funding round includes a £926,000 equity investment alongside a £630,000 Innovate UK grant. The equity element drew support from investors including Cambridge Enterprise Ventures, Spectrum Impact, Tybourne Capital, Providence Investment Company and SourceSquared.
Dr Claudio Marinelli, chief executive of CPT, said the raise reflects growing confidence in the company’s approach. “This investment demonstrates strong private-sector confidence in CPT’s technology and vision,” he said. “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. Together, this funding positions CPT to accelerate product readiness and bring a breakthrough British innovation to the global clean-energy market.”
Cambridge Enterprise Ventures, which has supported the company since its formation, said CPT’s progress highlights the importance of next-generation materials in the transition to low-carbon power. “Cambridge Photon Technology exemplifies the kind of transformative innovation needed to accelerate the global transition to sustainable energy and address climate challenges,” said investment director Chris Gibbs. “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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