A team of researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) has made a breakthrough in solar energy. They’ve developed panels that can generate electricity at night, a game-changer for renewable energy.
How it works
The secret lies in a device called a thermoradiative diode. It converts heat into electrical energy. The panels use materials similar to night vision goggles, which capture infrared light. As the panels cool down, they release heat into space, creating a temperature difference that generates electricity.
The amount of electricity produced is small – about 100,000 times less than traditional solar panels. However, this technology has the potential to power small devices like smartwatches, sensors, and smart home equipment.
The researchers are already exploring ways to improve the technology. They’re working on new materials that are easier to manufacture, which could speed up development and commercialization.
The potential applications go beyond Earth. The team plans to use this technology in space, where the day-night cycle is just 90 minutes. This could be a crucial power source for long-duration missions.
Some key benefits of this new technology include:
- Generating electricity at night without batteries
- Potential to power small devices
- Possible use in space exploration
- Advancements in materials science
While the technology is still experimental, the progress is promising. As more people adopt green energy sources, we’ll be one step closer to achieving energy transition.
As the world grapples with energy crises, innovations like these are a step toward a more sustainable future. Harnessing energy from the sun and space could be a major breakthrough. The development of these nighttime solar panels is an exciting development that could transform the way we generate electricity.