Electrochemical Based Solar Cells with Energy Storage Capability

­Competitive Advantages

  • Does not require separate energy storage devices
  • Environment friendly
  • Provides energy even in the dark
  • Increased energy conversion efficiency

Summary

USF inventors have proposed solar cells that have internal energy storage capacity such that the cells internally store energy when they are not exposed to light or when the energy consumed from the cells is less than the energy generated by the cells. The invention consists of the conducting polymer that is capable of storing energy generated within the cell. Unlike conventional solar cells, if no load is connected or if the consumed energy is less than the generated energy, the cells internally store the excess energy like a super-capacitor. The stored energy can be delivered to the load even in the dark and the cycle can be repeated by charging the cell with light again.

Schematic View of a Solar Cell Having Internal Energy Storage Capacity

Desired Partnerships

  • License
  • Sponsored Research
  • Co-Development
Patent Information:
Title App Type Country Serial No. Patent No. File Date Issued Date Expire Date
Solar Cells Having Energy Storage Capacity Utility United States 14/518,333 10,069,459 10/20/2014 9/4/2018 8/20/2036