this scene's serene

So we all know about solar energy, right?  Solar technologies are able to capture, convert and distribute energy just by collecting sunlight through panels. Scientists have developed a new type of plastic solar cell that can harness the sun’s infared rays even on a cloudy day. Like paint, the cells can be sprayed onto materials and used as a form of portable electricity. Molecular electronic devices called organic semiconductors can now be used to directly convert light energy to electic energy using a flexible compound called poly(3-hexylthiopene), or P3HT. Right now, most solar cells and electronic displays are made with silicon. Although the technology is effective, it is costly. Making solar cells and displays from an organic semiconductor is cheaper, requires less power and it allows products to bend and fold.

Think about the possibilities. One item that can already be considered to be placed on the market is solar cellphones. With new solar cell paint, you may never have to recharge your cellphone again. Engineers predict there is a very high chance of seeing this new spray technology on products by the end of 2011.

“The sun that reaches the Earth’s surface delivers 10,000 times more energy than we consume,” said Ted Sargent, an electrical engineering professor at the University of Toronto. Sargent is one of the inventors of the new plastic material. 

Imagine a world with solar-painted skyscrapers and automobiles. This has to be one of the best inventions I’ve heard of yet.