Lighting the way: Harnessing the North East's photonics potential

The Advanced Materials Electronics (AME) sector is a vital component for numerous industries, and right here in the North East, we're well-positioned to lead the way. Our region’s ecosystem is a perfect blend of established industry strengths and world-class research, particularly in one of the AME sector's key technologies: Photonics as per Table 1.

A Thriving Hub for Advanced Electronics

The sheer scope of AME is astonishing—Durham County Council's 2025 AME Landscape Report identified 45 different SIC codes used by businesses that self-identify as part of the sector. And where are many of these businesses? A significant number have an office, lab, or manufacturing facility right here at NETPark.

Established in 2004, NETPark is a fantastic example of a triple helix approach in action, run by Business Durham in partnership with Durham University and the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI). This collaborative environment is crucial for high-tech innovation, and it's growing stronger: in 2023, the Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult, with expertise spanning power electronics, photonics, and RF, announced the establishment of an office at the park.

The North East’s vibrant research community, comprising four regional universities, Teesside University, and the RTO CPI, ensures we have the intellectual horsepower to push the sector forward.

A Clear Market Opportunity: Optical Communications

Our regional focus shows our existing capabilities are already aligned with significant growth areas. RF & microwave and Photonics are the third and fourth most common technology focuses for North East AME businesses, as per Figure 1. "Communications," meanwhile, is the second most common application serviced by these firms.

This foundation puts us in a prime position to capitalise on Optical Communications and Photonics.

The global market for optical communications is projected to be valued at $4.8 billion by 2031, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31.3%. Why the growth? The trend is shifting away from traditional radio frequency (RF) communications toward Free-Space Optical Communications (FSOC). Powerful and precise photonic devices enable light signals to be propagated as laser beams in free space—encompassing air, outer space, and vacuum environments—and received by mobile units.

Our universities are driving this forward with relevant research groups, including the Optical Communications group at Northumbria University and the Centre for Communications Systems at Durham University. Furthermore, Octric, located in Newton Aycliffe, an established semiconductor foundry, manufactures both electronic and photonic components, including RF and photonic components for cellular handsets.

Conclusion

Harnessing the immense potential and growing demand for FSOC solutions using our existing capabilities is the next logical step for the North East. By continuing the triple helix approach—uniting academia, industry, and government—we can ensure the North East not only meets but helps define the future of Photonics development in the UK.

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