A Wales-based technology firm has agreed a strategic partnership with US electronics group Texas Instruments to work on solar power cells.

G24 Innovations (G24i) has been developing organic dyes that generate an electric current when exposed to light.

The major advantage of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) is that power is generated with low levels of natural light and indoors.

It is hoped that these can make a dent in the amount of energy used by electronic devices left in standby mode.

"Standby power is our killer app," explained G24i co-founder Bob Hertzberg to the Sunday Times. "We've been at this a long time but the technology is finally ready."

The company is also close to agreeing a deal with a computer maker to use the organic dye technology in wireless keyboards, mouses and other battery-powered devices, the newspaper reports.

DSSCs were first used in a commercial setting by electronic bag manufacturer Mascotte Industrial Associates in 2009.

The panel harvests energy while used outdoors, recharging devices such as mobile phones, e-books, cameras, and portable LED lighting systems stored in the bag.

Mr Hertzberg hopes that by shifting the focus to household gadgets that use up power in standby mode, G24i will hit its stride.

Source:

Solar Ink Takes World Off Standby (17/07/11)

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