Food Waste Transformed Into Breakthrough Solar Panels That Work Even on Cloudy Days
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📰 The quick summary: AuREUS solar panels transform food waste into clean electricity that works even on cloudy days, creating new income opportunities for farmers while addressing two major problems simultaneously.
📈 One key stat: Around 1.2 billion tonnes of food are wasted yearly, approximately 15% of all food grown, which could otherwise feed 37 million people for an entire month.
💬 One key quote: “Meet AuREUS solar panels, a new technology that transforms discarded crops into clean electricity, even on cloudy days.”
1️⃣ The big picture: AuREUS solar panels represent an innovative approach to both clean energy and food waste reduction. Developed by Filipino engineer Carvey Ehren Maigue, these panels contain luminescent particles found in fruits and vegetables that capture UV rays and convert them to electricity. Unlike traditional solar panels, AuREUS technology works on cloudy days and can be installed vertically on buildings. This dual-purpose innovation tackles two critical global issues simultaneously – creating renewable energy while repurposing food waste that would otherwise contribute to environmental problems.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: Farmers gain a valuable secondary market for produce that would otherwise go to waste, creating a new income stream from what was previously a financial loss. Rural communities benefit from more affordable and reliable power, even in areas where traditional solar panels aren’t effective. The technology works even without direct sunlight, making renewable energy more accessible in variable weather conditions. Environmental impact is doubled as the panels both reduce food waste and generate clean energy without additional resource extraction. The technology is advancing rapidly, with researchers identifying nine promising crops for material extraction at 80% efficiency.
3️⃣ What’s next: Researchers are actively exploring new applications beyond building walls, including covering vehicles, powering outdoor signage, and creating energy-harvesting windows. The extraction process is becoming more efficient, aiming to reach 100% efficiency in converting crop waste to usable materials. As the technology scales, it could become increasingly affordable and accessible for communities worldwide.
Read the full story here: Happy Eco News – How AuREUS Solar Panels Turn Food Waste Into Clean Energy and New Opportunities
