A Plant with Solar Cells

The sun is a very good source of energy and strength. That’s why we must not waste the energy that gives us nor suffer with rising energy costs.

The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), a Japanese Institute, Mitsubishi Corp. and Tokki Corp collaborated to create a solar cell module similar to a plant. It is a working prototype of a plastic plant equipped with thin film solar cells. Bright green solar cells are placed on the leaves of the plant. The plastic substrate, a layer of fullerene tolocianine and most other materials with the ability to harness solar energy make this a solar power plant. Each solar module is sealed with a thin protective film to prevent entry of water and oxygen.

The energy that can be generated with this mini plant can be used to power some appliances we have at home.

Currently, AIST is working on expanding the use of these thin film solar cells that will be incorporated in organic architectural materials such as walls, fabrics, tools, products for the outdoors and toys. If successful, it would be very good to live in a household in which each device is powered by solar power.