Solar panels are an excellent solution for capturing the energy of the sun but quickly become somewhat useless during inclement weather, so this hybrid solar cell has been developed to help change this.
Created by a team of engineers in China, the solar panel works by capturing energy from the sun as well as from raindrops during rainy days. This is achieved thanks to triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) that capture energy from movement to draw energy from rolling raindrops that hit the surface to ensure they are able to stay functional in bad weather.
The hybrid solar cell was published in the ACS Nano journal and could help to make eco energy solutions more effective in the near future.
Rain-Powered Solar Panels
This Hybrid Solar Cell Works in Sun or During Inclement Weather
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid Solar Cells - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop hybrid solar cells that can harness energy from both the sun and rain to improve solar panel efficiency in all weather conditions.
2. Triboelectric Nanogenerators (tengs) - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the application of TENGs to capture energy from movement, such as raindrops hitting surfaces, to create more efficient energy solutions.
3. Eco Energy Solutions - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop eco-friendly energy solutions that utilize hybrid solar cells and other renewable energy technologies to improve overall energy efficiency.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate hybrid solar cells and TENGs into the renewable energy industry to create more reliable and efficient energy solutions.
2. Solar Panel Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the production of hybrid solar panels that can harness energy from both sunlight and rain, offering superior performance regardless of weather conditions.
3. Green Construction - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate hybrid solar cells and TENGs into green building practices, making eco energy solutions more viable and sustainable for construction projects.