Converting ultraviolet light into electricity with transparent electronics
There is a growing demand for power generation based on a clean and inexhaustible energy like solar energy. In terms of cost and resources, the silicon solar cells most commonly used in electric power generation may be the most practical method. However, the large surface area required for such solar panels is problematic, because the space necessary for conventional solar cells is inadequate in most apartment complexes built in Japan. A transparent solar cell that fits in a window may be a solution to this problem.
The new photovoltaic cell is designed to transmit visible light while converting ultraviolet radiation into electricity. Most conventional solar cells absorb visible and infrared light to generate electricity. In order to make the most efficient use of sunlight in all spectra, AIST is developing a high-performance solar sheet with the potential to control infrared radiation.