Solar power breakthrough! Could the revolution start now?
One of the huge problems with solar energy has been a materials science one. Silicon-based cells are expensive, fragile, and have limited places they can be applied (easily). Looks like that’s all going to change:
New solar cells developed by Massey University don’t need direct sunlight to operate and use a patented range of dyes that can be impregnated in roofs, window glass and eventually even clothing to produce power.
This means teenagers could one day be wearing jackets that will recharge their equivalents of cellphones, iPods and other battery- driven devices.
Source: Solar power breakthrough at Massey – New Zealand news on Stuff.co.nz (See also: Sea Eagle)
These solar cells are based off of research into plant photosynthetic compounds. Essentially, what makes plants so darn efficient at using the Sun. While these dye-based cells are only in the proof-of-concept stage, the implications are amazing. Mind boggling.
Just read and let me know what you think.
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