Underwater Solar Panels
It’s been recently reported that scientists from the US Naval Research Electronics Science and Technology division have devised an underwater solar energy plant. This new technology involves solar panels made of GainP (Gallium Indium Phosphide). These panel cells are specifically designed to absorb energy from the blue-green portion of the visible light spectrum.
It’s been proven that these panels can operate at depths as far 30 feet. These changes in photovoltaic technology have the potential to revolutionize various industries. This technology could eventually be used in retailing, especially if the improvements later allow for picking specific light spectrum’s other than just the blue-green spectrum.
Some possible uses are:
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Solar powered scanners that can be used underwater at beach based businesses, returning or renting such things as diving equipment, boats, or surfboards without having to take the items out of the water.
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Solar powered iPads, menus, or signs that work in low light conditions found in Restaurants, Nightclubs, and Aquariums.
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Equipment chargers that work during the dawn and dusk hours of the day.
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Solar cells that will work with only ambient light, such as from street lights or moonlight.