Think about the last time your smartwatch ran out of battery. Now imagine it recharging on its own — just from being in the sun. That's the kind of future a team of scientists in Singapore is working toward.
According to a report from TechXplore, researchers at the National University of Singapore recently developed a solar cell that's not only powerful but also thin, bendable, and incredibly light.
Unlike most solar panels, this one can absorb near-infrared (NIR) light — the kind we can't see, but that still reaches us even on cloudy days. In lab tests, it hit a record-breaking level of energy conversion, opening the door for a new wave of solar-powered wearables and smart devices.
Researchers developed the innovation using a special type of solar tech known as a perovskite-organic tandem solar cell. These cells combine two materials to soak up more sunlight than traditional panels, including low-light conditions. That means more consistent energy generation, even when the sun isn't shining bright.
"Thanks to their light weight and flexible form, [the solar cells] are ideally suited for devices such as drones, wearable electronics, smart fabrics, and other AI-enabled devices," said assistant professor Hou Yi, lead researcher and head of the Perovskite-based Multijunction Solar Cells Group at the Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore.
The breakthrough could allow devices to "harvest sunlight … without the need for bulky batteries," he added.
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This development comes after years of global research into how to make solar power more versatile and accessible. In this case, the team achieved an unprecedented 26.4% efficiency — the highest recorded for an NIR-absorbing tandem solar cell. It's a huge leap for solar tech, especially when applied to compact, mobile, and off-grid uses.
Beyond convenience, this innovation supports a larger shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy systems. By expanding where and how solar can be used — including in consumer gadgets — it reduces reliance on dirty fuels. It decreases pollution tied to mining and battery manufacturing. That's a win for both the environment and public health.
While this tech isn't available in stores just yet, it's gaining attention as a promising platform for future solar-powered devices — and possibly even solar-powered clothing. With continued support and development, flexible solar cells could hit the market within the next few years.
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