Many people today use their phones all day at work. By the end of the day, the phone’s battery is usually spent. But what if your phone could generate its own power simply by being exposed to the sun’s rays? That’s the dream behind a new technology called transparent solar cells. Though these cells will eventually be developed for building windows, right now the excitement surrounding this technology is all about everyday items like a smartphone that need electricity.

How does it work?

Transparent solar cells are made up of small photovoltaic cells that convert light to electricity. But they only use the ultraviolet and infrared light. By using light that isn’t visible to the naked eye, this technology suddenly becomes more energy efficient. These types of light comprise two-thirds of the light used for harvesting energy so it’s automatically a better solution.

Javier Loya of OTC Global Holdings believes this technology to be sound, saying:

“Transparent Solar Cell Technology is transforming the solar energy landscape. Imagine being able to charge your phone and laptop using solar power. Businesses should be ready to move forward with innovative new programs that use this technology.”

With transparent luminescent solar concentrators (TLSC), users can add these transparent solar cells to their phone or tablet computer. Then the only other requirement is simply to place the device where it’s exposed to sunlight; let’s say on the dash of your work van, truck or car. No more dead phone batteries and no more searching everywhere to find the charger. For electricians or any workers out in the field each day, this could eliminate one of their major worries.

Javier Loya CEO of OTC Global Holdings says we must do better in the future at protecting the earth’s natural resources. He recently spoke about this, saying:

“Though money typically is the bottom line, Chile and other nations are now committed to moving forward with better climate mitigation measures. They’re on target to cut their carbon emissions by 30 percent by the year 2030 and this is a positive sign.”