In the near future, solar cells are expected to be highly efficient, thinner, more flexible, cheaper and easier to manufacture than the silicon solar cells of today. This could pave the way for them to be the most promising renewable energy source of choice globally.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) today announced that it is investing close to $3 million over three years to set up a new research centre that will pioneer the development of such solar cells of the future, as well as the expertise to harness these new clean energy sources effectively and in commercially viable ways. The Centre for Nanostructured Photosystems will also aim to develop new systems to harvest solar energy and, at the same time, encourage the long-term market viability of these innovations.
Professor Michael Graetzel, the Swiss pioneer of 'artificial photosynthesis' and Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Energy Research Institute@ NTU (ERI@N) will play a leading role as the advisor of the new centre that will be based at NTU.
Professor Graetzel is the inventor of the Dye-Sensitised Solar Cell, a device that mimics the ability of plants to capture photons of light and turn them into electricity. Also known as 'Graetzel cells,' they use special dyes to capture the energy in light at different wavelengths, like the chlorophyll of plants. Often described as 'artificial photosynthesis,' the technology is a promising alternative to today's standard silicon photovoltaic cells.
Professor Graetzel was conferred the honorary Degree of Doctor of Engineering (honoris causa) yesterday by NTU. He was awarded the prestigious 2010 Millennium Technology Prize for his cells that provides a more affordable way of harnessing solar energy. A recipient of multiple international research accolades, Professor Graetzel will be looking to further his research at the new Centre for Nanostructured Photosystems. Made of low-cost materials and not needi
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| Contact: Feisal Abdul Rahman feisalar@ntu.edu.sg 656-790-6687 Nanyang Technological University Source:Eurekalert |
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