Until recently, photovoltaic cells (for the rest of us, “solar energy panels”) were expensive, cumbersome, and unattractive, and had limited uses aside from generating electricity for homes. This newest upgrade, however, may eventually let you charge your devices simply by walking around in the sun.

Researchers at the Sandia National Laboratories have created tiny, glitter-sized photovoltaic cells (shaped like snowflakes, no less) that use 1/100 of the material to generate the same amount of electricity as standard photovoltaic cells. These solar sequins may eventually make it to textiles, clothing, and other oddly-shaped surfaces.

The great thing about these tiny photovoltaic cells is that if one of them happens to die, it doesn’t compromise the entire panel as it does in conventional arrays. This makes them ideal for flexible surfaces such as tents, tensile roofing, and (of course) clothing. As the technology develops, they may even eventually replace traditional solar cells.

As of now, the cells produce energy at 14.9% efficiency — awesome in relation to the average 13-20% efficiency offered by commercial modules. Here’s to hoping this technology develops very, very quickly.

Via: Inhabitat