World's first electricity-generating fabric developed
The world’s first electricity-generating fabric has been developed by Japanese solar company Sphelar Power Corporation and the textile industry R&D hub, the Industrial Technology Centre of Fukui Prefecture.
The textile incorporates interwoven spherical solar cells, which are aligned and connected as a thread, then woven into a fabric. The result is essentially a flexible and expandable photovoltaic module textile. The solar cells are connected through conductive wires to provide a source of light and heat. Each cell has an electrical output of 0.2 mW during the day, under clear skies.
The flexibility of the cloth makes it a suitable option for window dressings such as blinds and curtains, but probably not clothing in the short term. Researchers are still looking for a suitable coating for conductive wires and a way of improving the durability of the fabric.
Sweden's Echandia supplies battery system to Tasmanian shipbuilder
The maritime battery company will be supplying its Echandia Core battery system to Incat...
Australia's EnergyConnect project is almost ready to go live
Together with Elecnor Australia, Transgrid has completed construction of the 700 km NSW section...
Funding boost for electric road freight
Set to hit the road this year, New Energy Transport's electric prime movers will be supported...
