Solar or photovoltaic (PV) cells fixed to roofs convert sunlight into electricity. An October Tech Brief highlighted a spin on this traditional idea of solar.

According to researchers at the National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST), bringing solar technology indoors could further boost the energy efficiency of buildings and power up a variety of wireless smart technologies, like smoke alarms, cameras, and temperature sensors. In indoor environments, the team tested miniature solar modules under artificial light. 

The researchers’ findings suggest that the already ubiquitous material in outdoor

PV modules could be repurposed for indoor devices with low-capacity batteries. The results are particularly applicable, says NIST, to commercial buildings, where lights are on around the clock.

Read the Tech Brief.

 What do you think? Will We Use Solar to Power Our Devices Indoors?