Researchers at Stanford University have developed a revolutionary solar panel technology capable of generating electricity at night, even under moonlight and cloudy or rainy conditions. This innovative solution addresses a long-standing limitation of conventional solar panels, which traditionally become inactive after sunset.
The technology, dubbed “moonlight panels,” was developed by Professor Shanhui Fan and his research team. It utilizes a technique called radiative cooling, which enables solar panels to act as energy generators during nighttime. By incorporating thermoelectric generators into standard solar panels, the system captures heat as it dissipates into the night sky and converts it into electricity.
These modified panels are able to produce about 50 milliwatts of power per square meter during the night—modest compared to the average 200 watts per square meter generated during the day, but sufficient to operate low-power devices such as LED lights and environmental monitoring sensors.
A key advantage of this technology is its compatibility with existing solar infrastructure. The system can be retrofitted onto current solar panels, making it a cost-effective upgrade that enhances renewable energy reliability, especially in off-grid or remote locations.
Moreover, by reducing the dependence on batteries for nighttime energy storage, the innovation could help lower the environmental footprint associated with battery manufacturing and disposal.
The development of nighttime solar panels marks a significant step toward continuous renewable energy availability, especially in areas with limited daylight. It holds promise for improving energy resilience and expanding the applicability of solar technology in diverse climates.
