Solar energy
A solar cell capable of generate electricity without directly relying on sunlight It’s changing the game for clean energy.
Researchers from Brazil and Italy have developed a new generation of solar cells designed for indoor environments, using common artificial light, such as that from residential and commercial lamps.
The technology relies on a semiconductor material different from traditional silicon. The central element is perovskite, produced in the laboratory and considered one of the greatest promises of modern photovoltaic energy.
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This breakthrough is noteworthy because it addresses one of the biggest limitations of conventional solar cells: the sharp drop in efficiency in low-light conditions.
The market for indoor photovoltaic devices is seen as a sleeping giant. Sensors, remote controls, smart devices, and low-power industrial equipment still rely heavily on disposable batteries.
However, artificial lighting has always been insufficient to power these systems efficiently.
The new perovskite solar cells are changing this scenario. Tests show excellent performance under common indoor lighting levels, such as 1.000, 500, and even 200 lux.
This paves the way for equipment that operates continuously, without frequent battery changes.
The breakthrough was led by researchers at CINE (Center for Innovation in New Energies), in partnership with Italian institutions. The team created an innovative surface treatment for the main layer of the solar cell, composed of perovskite.
The process involves applying an ultrathin layer formed by a mixture of the organic salt PEAI (phenethylammonium iodide) with the additive DIO (1,8-diiodooctane). This combination spontaneously generates a two-dimensional perovskite on the base three-dimensional structure, reducing defects and improving the transport of electrical charges.
Another noteworthy point is the simplicity of the process. The treatment takes place at room temperature, without the need for complex thermal steps, which reduces costs and facilitates large-scale production.
The technique has already been applied to cells of different sizes, including modules of up to 121 cm², formed by 15 cells connected in series.
In practice, it is a small solar panel designed specifically for indoor environments.
The tests reinforce the potential of perovskite solar cells to power low-power electronics in homes, businesses, and industries, reducing waste and expanding the use of clean energy in indoor spaces.
“The strategy developed demonstrates strong competitive potential compared to other methodologies for producing perovskite solar cells and modules, especially due to its simplicity of manufacture and low cost impact,” Francineide highlighted.
If a solar cell can work even with artificial light, does it still make sense to rely on disposable batteries?
He holds a degree in Advertising from UERN; a master’s degree in Social Communication from UFMG; and is pursuing a PhD in Language Studies at CEFET-MG. He has worked as a freelance writer since 2019, with texts published on websites such as Baixaki, MinhaSérie, and Letras.mus.br. Academically, his work has been published in books and presented at industry events. Among his research topics, he is particularly interested in the publishing market from a perspective that considers different social markers.
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