Article

Companies including Nanosolar, Global Photonic Energy, Bloo Solar, EnSol, and Solarmer Energy are pursuing the development of thin-film nano solar cells for diverse applications, from rooftops to mobile devices. These cells utilize various nanomaterials, including nanotech inks on aluminum foil, graphene sheets, and quantum dots, aimed at creating malleable, cost-effective, and portable solar solutions.

Research at the Technical University of Munich focuses on flexible solar cells integrated with rechargeable batteries for consumer electronics. Nanosolar's technology achieves 17.1% efficiency using lightweight aluminum foil, while Global Photonic Energy designs translucent organic photovoltaic cells suitable for various surfaces.

Bloo Solar's Solar Brush design reduces material use by 90% while increasing energy output, and EnSol has developed a transparent solar film applicable to multiple surfaces. Solarmer Energy targets the wearable market with high-energy conversion organic photovoltaic technology.