The quest for cleaner and more sustainable energy sources is a global priority. Solar energy, a renewable and abundant resource, is playing a crucial role in this transition. However, one of the major challenges hindering the widespread adoption of solar energy is the efficient storage of the harvested energy. Now, researchers at the Barcelona East School of Engineering (EEBE) have made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize solar energy storage.
Their innovative hybrid device combines a silicon solar cell with a molecular solar thermal energy storage system (MOST). This groundbreaking approach addresses two major issues plaguing solar energy storage systems: reliance on unsustainable materials and overheating.
The MOST system, developed by lead researcher Professor Kasper Moth-Poulsen, utilizes a specially designed molecule composed of carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen. These common elements provide a sustainable alternative to scarce materials like lithium, commonly found in conventional batteries. The molecule’s unique structure enables it to absorb sunlight and undergo a chemical transformation, storing the energy for later use.
But the benefits extend beyond efficient energy storage. The MOST system also acts as a cooling agent for the photovoltaic cell. It functions as an optical filter, blocking photons (light particles) that would normally cause heating. The cooling effect significantly enhances the overall efficiency of the solar cell, as systems perform better at lower temperatures.
Laboratory tests have yielded remarkable results. The hybrid device achieved a record-breaking energy storage efficiency of 2.3% for molecular thermal solar energy, surpassing the conventional 1.1%. Furthermore, the cooling effect of the MOST system has also boosted the efficiency of the photovoltaic cell, further enhancing the overall performance of the device.
“I am very excited about this since we are demonstrating that it is possible to increase efficiency and add storage to photovoltaic systems,” Professor Moth-Poulsen shared with Euronews Green.
The researchers envision that with further development, their innovative technology can be retrofitted to existing solar cell installations, making it a viable solution for enhancing existing infrastructure.
While this technology is still in its early stages, the researchers are confident that their hybrid invention will play a significant role in reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing the environmental impact of conventional batteries. The next steps involve engineering the technology for long-term use and optimizing materials production to make it more cost-effective. This exciting development holds immense potential for ushering in a new era of sustainable and efficient solar energy storage.
