Green Tech-er

3D Solar Photovoltaics

Georgia Tech researchers use nanowires integrated with optical fibers to convert sunlight in electricity.

While the materials have a lower solar conversion efficiency, the quantity and quality of nanowires could serve to boost energy harvesting results. The optical fibers support remote location of the photoactive part of the structure, allowing light to be transported to the nanostructures for electrical generation. …

… “Using zinc oxide nanostructures grown on optical fibers and coated with dye-sensitized solar cell materials, researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a new type of three-dimensional photovoltaic system. The approach could allow PV systems to be hidden from view and located away from traditional locations such as rooftops. ” …