Slashdot Mirror
Self-Assembling Photovoltaic Cells
dhj writes "MIT scientists have developed a self-assembling photovoltaic cell in a petri dish. Phospholipids (think cell membranes) form disks which act as the structural support for light responsive molecules. Carbon nanotubes help to align the disks and conduct electricity generated by the system with 40% efficiency. The assembly process is reversible using surfactants to break up the phospholipids. When filters are used to remove the surfactants the system reassembles with no loss of efficiency even over multiple assembly/disassembly cycles. The results were published September 5th in Nature Chemistry."
I disagree. Let's assume I can sell you a very very cheap solar cell that runs at 2% efficiency. The price is so low that the $ per kw/h is very low. However, this is not a viable option. In this case, you will quickly recoup your investment, but you aren't producing much power. Do you plan to make your roof 5 to 10 times as large?
$ per kw/h is important, but it is not the only important metric.
I do agree that there is no absolute need to be off the grid. However, it seems to me that a logical goal for the technology should be: a typical house should be able to cover its southern facing roof with solar panels and produce enough power to run lights, refrigerator, and A/C on a summer day at noon.