Million of pounds have been invested in researching solar power in Scotland, according to industry body Scottish Renewables.

As it prepares to host its first Solar Conference in Edinburgh this September, the organisation claimed Scotland was becoming a "hub" for research into the sector.

The event will be held in association with the Scottish Institute for Solar Energy Research (SISER), which brings together expertise form 10 Scottish Universities and the Edinburgh-based UK Astronomy Technology Centre.

Various projects to support the solar industry are currently being looked at, including:

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• Developing cutting-edge materials to produce more energy, more cheaply

• Making fuel from carbon dioxide using sunlight

• How panels would work on the moon

• How to freeze-proof solar technology for Scotland's harsh winters

• Using satellite-mounted mirrors to focus a concentrated beam of sunlight at a solar collector on Earth

Stephanie Clark, Policy Manager at Scottish Renewables, said: "Clean, affordable energy is a huge prize with a global market, and the work which is being done in Scotland is helping contribute to that aim.

"Scottish Renewables represents 280 organisations working in renewable energy in Scotland, so it's only natural that we should partner with SISER to hold our first Solar Conference."

Professor Graeme Cooke, Director of SISER, added: "This conference will showcase the breadth of solar energy research and development currently being undertaken in Scotland."

The exhibition will take place on 06 and 07 September in Edinburgh.

(LM/CD)