Indian scientists at the Department of Science and Technology (DST) have created a solar-powered energy storage device that can capture and store energy in a single unit. This innovation eliminates the need for separate units for energy harvesting and storage, reducing costs and energy losses during conversion. The device, known as a photo-rechargeable supercapacitor, was developed by researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences in Bengaluru under DST.
The new technology offers efficient, low-cost, and eco-friendly power solutions for portable, wearable, and off-grid technologies. Unlike conventional systems that required additional power management electronics, this device simplifies the process by integrating both functions. By utilizing nickel-cobalt oxide nanowires grown on nickel foam, the device efficiently absorbs sunlight and stores electrical charge simultaneously.
The device demonstrated stable performance in real-world applications, maintaining a stable output voltage of 1.2 volts and retaining 88% of its capacitance even after 1,000 photo-charging cycles. It can operate effectively under various sunlight conditions, from low indoor illumination to intense sunlight. This breakthrough technology can function in remote areas without access to an electrical grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and traditional batteries.
