Sustainability has gone from being an option to being the only path we have left if we don’t want our planet to end up as a great lifeless desert. So, in a world where sustainability is an urgent matter, tech companies are the ones setting the pace for the energy transition. At this point, Sego Innovations has taken a decisive step with the launch of a foldable solar cell based on origami. Wait, what? This technology not only breaks away from the traditional design of solar panels, but also opens up a range of possibilities for travellers, emergency personnel, and nature lovers. We’ll explain how this innovative way of generating energy works below.
What is origami?
You’ve surely seen paper figures somewhere, like cranes, cats, birds, or even little boats. That’s origami, the Japanese art of folding paper to form figures and shapes without using scissors or glue, just through precise and strategic folds. Careful, it’s not for the clumsy or the impatient.
A star is born
So, once we’ve explained what origami is, we can continue by explaining how this solar technology works, which, as we said, is based on this Japanese technique. The cell, like paper, will fold like a sheet, turning a solar panel into a portable device never seen before.
This design will be compact and flexible, and can be unfolded and folded in seconds, allowing users who need energy to use it at any time, and even better, adjust its orientation to capture as much sunlight as possible.
Portable solar energy
Traditional solar panels are very heavy structures and, on top of that, are difficult to install. This solar cell is not only easy to transport, it’s also very lightweight (so you can move it around), but being lightweight doesn’t mean it’s not resistant, as this structure will withstand extreme conditions and be capable of adapting to all kinds of places, from rooftops in cities to remote areas. And best of all, it fits in a backpack, and it won’t need to be fully unfolded to work, it can remain operational even when folded.
Its most practical use
It’s believed that this solar cell could be a key element in natural disasters, where electric infrastructure is usually the first thing to collapse. Who knows, maybe this solar cell should also be part of your government-recommended emergency kit.
But yes, this device can mean the difference between communication and isolation, because it can provide immediate energy to power lights or charge phones or even medical devices, making it essential for rescue teams.
In other areas, and thinking about leisure, it’s also very practical, as campers and travellers can carry with them a clean and reliable ally to power a flashlight or GPS without relying on disposable batteries or power banks, which, in addition, have to be recharged using electricity from time to time.
The goal
As with all renewable energy, the goal is clear: to promote an energy-sustainable future and gradually eliminate dependence on fossil fuels. Isn’t it attractive to be able to produce clean energy without expensive installations and anywhere? Many also believe we should promote free access to energy, and this is definitely a big step toward that.
Where could it be integrated?
That’s the best part, Sego Innovations has already announced that it will continue to refine the design to increase energy efficiency and extend its lifespan, but it could be integrated anywhere, going from being a futuristic concept to becoming part of our everyday reality.
The energy future definitely looks promising, don’t you think so? We just have to wait and see.