Researchers at Imperial College London have devised an ambitious proposal that could redefine how we conceive renewable energy: a nature-inspired PV.

Beyond the aesthetic, the design of this sheet is no coincidence. It is inspired by the process of transpiration of the real leaves. Just as natural leaves transport water from the roots, the PV leaf emulates this process. This similarity allows water distribution and evaporation, cooling solar cells PV in the process. This avoids heat energy dissipation, increasing its efficiency. In addition, recovered heat is used to produce thermal energy and fresh water.

Advantages

This innovative design has amazing advantages compared to traditional solar panels:

• Higher Efficiency: It can generate 10% more electricity than current solar panels.
• Water Production: It has the potential to generate more than 40 billion cubic meters of water per year by 2050, if its adoption follows the pace of solar panels.
• Economy and Sustainability: By removing expensive components such as fans and pumps, their production becomes more affordable. It also uses economic materials such as natural fibres and hydrogels.
• Adaptable: This sheet can be adjusted to variations in light and temperature, making it suitable for various environments.