Cambridge scientists have developed algae solar cells that could be used to store energy in remote rural communities. The new technology is based on a novel approach for harvesting sunlight from the ocean and converting it into electricity. “While conventional silicon-based solar cells are more efficient than algae-powered cells in the fraction of the sun’s energy they turn to electrical energy, there are attractive possibilities with other types of materials,” said Professor Christopher Howe from the Department of Biochemistry. In a paper in Nature Energy, researchers outlined how they successfully developed a system that separates charging and power delivery. This means cells are more efficient, with less internal resistance and lower electrical losses, said Professor Tuomas Knowles from the university's department of chemistry. This could prove useful in rural Africa and south Asia, as cells could be made locally without the need for high-tech factories.
Cambridge scientists have developed algae solar cells that could be used to store energy in remote rural communities. The new technology is based on a novel approach for harvesting sunlight from the ocean and converting it into electricity. In a paper in Nature Energy, researchers outlined how they successfully developed a system that separates charging and power delivery. This means cells are more efficient, with less internal resistance and lower electrical losses, said Professor Tuomas Knowles from the university's department of chemistry. This could prove useful in rural Africa and south Asia, as cells could be made locally without the need for high-tech factories.