Who said solar energy can only be used outdoors? A new frontier is changing the rules of the game: today, thanks to technology, even the light from a bulb can be transformed into energy. Forget gigantic panels on the roofs or endless expanses of photovoltaic systems. This revolution arises from tiny devices capable of capturing artificial light, powering sensors, remote controls and other everyday objects. The result? A decisive step towards a future without disposable batteries, more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Behind this revolution lie two key innovations: organic cells and those based on perovskite crystals. There Swedish start-up Epishinefor example, is attracting attention thanks to its organic cells that are light, flexible and capable of converting even the faintest indoor light into energy.
But there’s more. Perovskite cells are making headlines for their record efficiency: they manage to capture up to 42% of artificial light. A real godsend for powering small devices such as wearables, IoT sensors and remote controls. And these are not vague promises: a project funded by the European Union with 3.3 million euros is already turning these technologies into reality. Electronic labels and self-powered sensors are just some of the examples that this collaboration is developing.
Mass production and energy saving: a change that starts from our homes
The most exciting aspect? These technologies are no longer a prototype. Epishinethanks to roll-to-roll printing technology, is capable of producing up to 100 million modules every year. This makes it possible to power domestic and industrial devices with artificial light, reducing dependence on the electricity grid and reducing energy costs.
Think electronic tags that charge themselves or environmental sensors that can monitor temperature and humidity without ever changing a battery. It’s not science fiction: self-powered sensors are already a reality thanks to the collaboration between Epishine and the German Sentinum.
In addition to making device maintenance easier, this innovation dramatically reduces electronic waste, reducing the environmental impact of single-use batteries. It’s a solution that could change the rules of the game, making homes and offices not only more efficient, but also more sustainable.
The adoption of indoor solar panels represents an epochal change. For the first time, even closed spaces can become carbon neutraloffering a sustainable alternative for energy consumption. Forget about cables, sockets or constant battery changes: devices powered by artificial light could soon become the norm.
In the long term, these innovations could even eliminate traditional batteries thanks to collaborations like the one between Epishine and Nichicona leading company in the production of rechargeable batteries.
