Solar-power paint to make its way onto steel buildings

Scientists at England’s Swansea University are working to develop a paint which can be quickly applied to large steels sheets to generate power from the sun beaming down on them.

This paint would be suited to warehouses and other buildings that are commonly covered with steel sheets.  It is based on dye-sensitised solar cells. Although less efficient than conventional solar cells, dye-based cells are cheaper as they don’t require solicon and can be applied as a liquid paste.

The solar cells are built up in several layers. First is a layer of regular paint directly on the steel. Then, the electrolyte and dye layers are applied, and the cell is finished off with a clear protective film to guard against the elements.

Researchers expect a commercial cell within two and a half years. Although these cells probably won’t make a huge impact, every little bit helps with the switch to renewable energy.