Neil Spann, Managing Director of Power Roll, has had a fascinating career path, from accountancy to leading one of the most innovative renewable energy companies in the UK. His leadership journey combines financial expertise, strategic foresight, and a passion for developing technologies that contribute to a more sustainable future. Neil’s involvement with the Business Durham Advisory Board adds another layer to his commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the North East.
From Finance to Innovation
Neil Spann’s career began with a mathematics degree, which led him into the world of accountancy. He trained with one of the Big Four accountancy firms in Manchester and eventually returned back to the North East joining Ernst & Young in Newcastle. His work exposed him to a variety of industries and opportunities, providing a strong foundation in business operations, financial management, and strategic development.
In 2007, Neil moved into the energy efficiency sector with Eaga, a Newcastle-based company focused on reducing fuel poverty by installing heating and insulation systems in homes across the UK. Neil explains: “This was my first in-depth experience of carbon reduction activities, and the combination of growing a business whilst also making a difference to people’s lives and the planet was compelling.” Eaga grew to become one of the UK’s largest installers of solar PV panels.
After Eaga was sold in 2011, Neil was introduced to the founders of Power Roll, including a scientist who had developed a breakthrough in solar technology. Recognising the immense potential of their innovation, Neil took on the role of CEO at Power Roll, a start-up that began with just one patent and a bold idea to revolutionise solar energy.
“I was drawn to the opportunity to develop a product that could make a significant difference, not only for renewable energy but for the region and in the wider world,” Neil explains. “The North East has a rich history of manufacturing and innovation, and Power Roll is building on that legacy.”
Power Roll: A New Era in Solar Technology
At the heart of Power Roll’s mission is to break the barriers preventing widespread adoption of solar power. Traditional solar panels are bulky, expensive, and limited in where they can be installed. Power Roll’s innovation lies in its tiny micro-grooves contained in a lightweight, flexible Solar Film, which are much thinner than a human hair. Solar Film can be applied to a wide range of surfaces—from rooftops to the sides of buildings and even portable structures. This ultra-thin film resembles old Kodak photography film in appearance, making it easy to transport, install, and scale.
Neil elaborates: “We’ve patented our technology in over 120 countries, and no one else is doing what we’re doing. This is a complete reinvention of solar energy, and we believe it will change the way the world thinks about solar power.”
Commercialising Innovation: From Pilot to Full-Scale Production
Power Roll has successfully moved from the research phase to the pilot stage of manufacturing. The company’s journey began with proof-of-concept work, collaborating with universities and research centres to validate the underlying technology. After demonstrating that the technology could be scaled economically, Power Roll established a pilot factory at Jade Business Park in County Durham to begin producing the solar film at a commercial level.
“This pilot factory is a critical milestone for us,” Neil says. “We’re now producing film for testing and demonstration purposes, and the performance metrics are promising. We’ve proven that the technology works, and we’re confident that it can be scaled for mass production.”
Power Roll is currently in the process of raising significant investment to build a commercial-scale factory in County Durham. This facility will be the first of its kind, capable of producing over a million square meters of solar film per year. The project will not only generate hundreds of jobs but also serve as a blueprint for additional factories around the world. The company is already in discussions with international partners in the US, India, and Japan to explore opportunities for global expansion.
“The market potential is enormous,” Neil explains. “There are approximately 12 billion square meters of roof space globally that can’t accommodate traditional solar panels. Our technology addresses that gap. Initially, we’ll target commercial buildings—warehouses, schools, factories, and public buildings—but the possibilities are endless.”
Power Roll and County Durham: A Strategic Fit
Neil is keen to emphasise the strategic importance of locating Power Roll’s operations in County Durham. The region offers several advantages, including access to skilled talent, proximity to leading research institutions, and strong support from Business Durham.
“For any business to succeed, you need access to the right resources—talent, funding, and infrastructure—and County Durham provides all of that,” Neil notes. “The region has a strong manufacturing heritage and is well-connected to other parts of the UK, making it an ideal location for us to grow.”
A Collaborative Role on the Business Durham Advisory Board
Neil’s involvement with the Business Durham Advisory Board allows him to contribute his extensive experience and international perspective, helping shape the business landscape in County Durham. His work with Power Roll, particularly in the renewable energy sector, positions him as a valuable contributor to discussions around innovation and sustainability.
“The Advisory Board offers a great platform to share insights and learn from other business leaders,” Neil explains. “It’s also an opportunity to support other businesses that are on a similar journey. We’ve benefited from the support of Business Durham, and I want to help ensure that other companies can access the same opportunities.”
Neil’s role on the board complements his work at Power Roll by providing exposure to what other businesses in the region are doing. “One of the challenges when you’re a CEO is that you can become very focused on your own company. The Advisory Board helps me stay connected to the broader business community and think about how we can all contribute to the region’s growth,” Neil adds.
Engaging in Key Initiatives
One initiative Neil has been particularly involved in is Future Business Magnates, a Business Durham programme designed to inspire and support the next generation of entrepreneurs. As a judge for the programme, Neil has had the opportunity to guide and mentor young business leaders, an experience he finds highly rewarding.
“It’s a fantastic programme and being able to help young people develop their ideas is something I’m passionate about. Having been on the other side, pitching Power Roll to hundreds of investors, I know how valuable that experience can be,” Neil says.
Looking to the Future: Scaling Innovation Globally
As Power Roll moves toward full-scale commercialisation, Neil is confident that the company’s innovative solar technology will have a global impact. The product’s flexibility and scalability make it ideal for diverse applications, from powering remote villages in developing countries to integrating with urban infrastructure in global cities.
“The ultimate goal is to make solar power accessible to everyone, regardless of geography or infrastructure. We’re just at the beginning of what could be a game-changing technology for renewable energy,” Neil says. “We’re excited to be building the future right here in County Durham and taking that innovation to the world.”
Neil Spann’s leadership at Power Roll and his involvement with the Business Durham Advisory Board
exemplify his commitment to driving innovation and regional growth. Through his work, Neil is not only advancing renewable energy but also contributing to the broader business ecosystem in County Durham, helping to create a sustainable and prosperous future for the region.
