Though solar energy is found in abundance and is considered to be free energy, the cost involved in setting up the whole system to convert solar energy into electrical power is steep. Most of the underdeveloped countries, who are in dire need of usable free energy, cannot afford to set up such sophisticated solar plants. And it is for this reason that Nicole Kuepper has come up with a resourceful concept of producing solar cells in a pizza oven. Realizing the need for affordable cells, this clever lady came up with the iJET cell concept that uses low-cost and low-temperature processes, such as ink-jet printing and pizza ovens, to manufacture solar cells.
Estimated to see daylight within five years, this patented technology will be able to provide renewable energy to homes in some of the least developed countries. And it would also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Being a PhD student and lecturer in the school of photovoltaic and renewable energy engineering at the University of NSW, it isn’t surprising to know that Nicole has won two Australian Museum Eureka Prizes for her scientific research. She has also won the British Council Eureka Prize for Young Leaders in Environmental Issues and Climate Change as well as the People’s Choice Award. With so many green awrds in her kitty, I’m sure Nicole will successively be able to materialize the iJET cell concept.
Via Cleantechnica
