Indian scientists unveil single-unit solar device that captures and stores energy simultaneously

Scientists in India have developed an innovative solar-powered energy storage device capable of harvesting and storing electricity within a single unit, marking a significant advance in clean and self-sustaining power technologies.

As reported by IANS, a partner of TV BRICS, the newly designed system eliminates the need for separate solar panels and storage components, a limitation that has long increased cost, complexity and energy losses in conventional solar power solutions. By combining both functions into one compact device, the technology offers a more efficient and streamlined approach to renewable energy storage.

According to an official statement from the Ministry of Science and Technology, the device – described as a photo-rechargeable supercapacitor – was created by researchers at a government-supported nano-science research centre in Bengaluru.

Traditional solar-energy systems typically rely on additional power-management electronics to address voltage and current mismatches between energy collection and storage units. These requirements increase system size and limit their suitability for miniaturised or autonomous applications.

The new device overcomes these challenges through a novel material design based on binder-free nickel–cobalt oxide nanowires, grown directly onto a nickel substrate using a hydrothermal process. The resulting structure forms a highly porous, three-dimensional conductive network capable of efficiently absorbing sunlight while simultaneously storing electrical charge.

Laboratory testing demonstrated a stable output voltage of 1.2 volts, with the device retaining 88 per cent of its energy-storage capacity after 1,000 photo-charging cycles. It also performed reliably under a wide range of lighting conditions, from low indoor illumination to strong direct sunlight.

Researchers noted that the system’s structural stability enables it to withstand prolonged mechanical and electrochemical stress, making it suitable for long-term use. The technology is expected to support a wide range of applications, including portable electronics, wearable devices and off-grid energy systems, particularly in remote or underserved regions.

Photo: RossHelen / iStock