The panel exploits the contrast between illuminated and shaded areas to generate small amounts of electricity and power small devices in the house
“Shadow-effect energy generator” is the name of a new device that can pave the way for a great innovation. The discovery, presented in the journal Energy & Environmental Science, originated at the National University of Singapore. The researchers tried to exploit the contrast between light and shadow that is created in the interior of homes to produce electricity in an innovative way.
The device consists of a transparent and flexible plastic film. Several silicon cells covered with a thin layer of gold are deposited on the device. The alternation of light and shadow causes a voltage difference between the areas that generates a small amount of current. Tests conducted inside buildings have shown that the devices generate enough electricity to power objects such as digital watches, i.e. about 1.2 volts.
The concept behind the device could be developed to collect electricity from light indoors. Applications could maximize the efficiency of energy harvesting by exploiting areas that could not be used before. Similar devices could also be used to power wearable sensors, providing a major boost to the development of the industry.