Solar panels that generate electricity at night: a revolutionary invention

Nighttime electricity generation from solar panels: a ground-breaking innovation
Although solar panels typically produce electricity during the day, Stanford University researchers have now achieved a new achievement. They have created solar panels that are capable of producing power even at night. The application of a technique known as “radiative cooling” enabled this accomplishment.

1.Describe radiative cooling.

A technique called “radiative cooling” uses heat reflection or emission to cool objects. At night, when infrared energy is released into space from the Earth, this process is most active. Electricity can be produced during this period because of the temperature differential between the Earth and the atmosphere.

2. New methods and the generation of energy

By attaching thermoelectric generators to standard solar panels, scientists discovered a method to turn the heat released by the earth into electrical power. 50 milliwatts of electricity per square meter can be produced at night using this method.
This is sufficient to power tiny gadgets like LEDs and sensors, but it is far less than the 200 watts per square meter of electricity generated by solar panels during the day.
Future developments and possible applications
According to Stanford University study team leader Shen Huifan, this technology can yet be improved. The technique may eventually be made more broadly applicable, even if it currently only functions in perfect weather and clear skies.