Feature

The incredible shrinking solar cell

With lilliputian collectors, almost anything could be sun-powered

The next generation of solar cells will be small. About the size of lint. But the anticipated impact: That’s huge.

THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING SOLAR CELL Researchers are creating miniature photovoltaic cells that promise to make solar power cheaper and more versatile. ~~ Randy Montoya/Sandia

THE SMALL PRINT University of Illinois solar microcells can be stamped onto a flexible surface. ~~ J. Rogers

OUTDOOR CARPET Caltech scientists have created a solar collector that bounces sunlight through a forest of silicon semiconductor wires until most of the energy is absorbed. ~~ Michael Kelzenberg/Caltech, adapted by E. Feliciano