Energy security

Researchers discover new way to use solar energy and bacteria to produce electricity

Researchers from Birmingham University have made new progress in using bacteria to generate electrical power. For the first time ever, the research team has managed to connect nine biological-solar cells with a solar panel. Doing so allowed the team to generate the most electrical power ever generated by a small-scale biological-solar cell, highlighting a new milestone in energy production through the use of bacteria and solar energy.

New solar cell could be an effective energy solution for various sectors

According to the research team, once a biological-solar cell becomes available, it becomes a permanent energy source that can be used to supply long-term power for various purposes. Such a solution could prove quite valuable in areas where frequent battery replacement is not viable, such as in remote locations with harsh terrain and limited access to resources. Researchers believe that their work on the new solar cell could lead to a better understanding of the photosynthetic extracellular electron transfer process.