Grant: Applied Research Tools and Instruments Grants

For the better part of the last decade, organic photovoltaic technology has come to be regarded as one of the most promising candidates for providing a low cost, clean and renewable energy source. Due to the ever increasing demand for renewable energy sources, the manufacturing of solar cells and panels has grown considerably. The advantages of organic photovoltaics are many, but their primary benefits are attributed to the fact that they are relatively inexpensive when compared to traditional photovoltaic cells, they have flexible substrates, and they are extremely light weight. Together these features have led to innovation and increased versatility which makes them far more efficient and justifiable when installed in a large volume or quantity. Ensuring that our students are properly trained and proficient with this highly developed technology is an important issue that needs direct attention. Niagara College would like to see a further development and expansion of their skills by including the study of organic materials and their distinctive properties within our curriculum and applied research projects. Instituting this applied research training is both timely and contemporary, as the proliferation of organic materials within these industries will require our students to have advanced training and exposure to this technology in order to be well equipped to tackle the challenges and lead the innovation towards clean, renewable and sustainable technologies. It is our hope that with access to this equipment, Niagara College will be able to provide leadership and promote the innovation of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable energy technologies throughout Canada.