Japanese optoelectronic and semiconductor manufacturer Kyosemi Corporation has developed a solar cell called the Sphelar that could turn any pane of clear glass into a solar energy generation instrument. The technology’s potential for a wide range of applications is getting the solar power sector excited as the world looks to renewable energy sources to heal the planet.Sphelar solar cell demonstrates power efficiency and flexibilityThe potential and energy efficiency of Kyosemi Corporation’s innovative solar cell matrix were demonstrated at the PV Expo in Tokyo, where it was proven that the Sphelar cells can be embedded in windows to harvest solar power. As the name suggests, the Sphelar micro solar cell takes on a spherical shape, which makes the technology revolutionary in the way it harvests solar energy.Silicon is still the material that works best as a semiconductor for harvesting solar energy, and Kyosemi’s has made its Sphelar cells out of solidified silicon “drops” measuring 1.8mm in diameter. The highly transparent Sphelar cells are designed to be embedded in clear glass, creating a transparent solar cell window pane that can absorb light from all angles and directions. An advantage of the glass-embedded technology is that both sides of the panes are able to harness solar energy, which, in theory, means a more efficient system.Kyosemi’s Sphelar technology suits a range of applicationsThe Sphelar cells can be connected in series or in parallel, which means that a diverse range of products can be created, including dome-shaped units and film substrates. This is because flexible solar generating materials can be manufactured that can be bent and conform to almost any shape.The Sphelar is ideal in areas where a solar panel would block an important view but a semi-transparent glass pane would not. The solar power-generating glass maintains a level of transparency ranging from 20% to 80%.The benefits of solar power generationAs the world transitions to new ways of generating renewable energy as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible, solar power is critical. Here are the factors that make solar energy one of the key players in the renewable power sector:Clean and sustainable: Solar electricity is generated without by-products and it cannot be depleted.
Carbon footprint reduction: Solar energy replaces fossil fuels such as oil and coal, lowering carbon emissions.
Energy independence: Countries that reduce their dependence on fossil fuels will experience stronger economies. Solar-generated electricity can also be produced and supplied in outlying areas that can’t be connected to the grid.
Job creation and economic growth: The installation, operation, maintenance, and development of solar power systems create jobs. Countries that manufacture and export solar equipment benefit from GDP revenue. Solar generation systems are becoming cheaper due to cost-competitiveness.
The Sphelar production processThe process of producing stan
