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SolarStorage – Indian researchers have achieved a significant milestone in renewable technology with the development of a compact device capable of capturing and storing solar energy within a single system. The innovation, created under the Department of Science and Technology, represents a step forward in designing cleaner and more efficient power solutions that reduce reliance on conventional batteries and fossil fuels, according to an official government release.

A single system for harvesting and storage

Traditional solar power setups typically rely on two separate components—one to collect sunlight and another to store the generated electricity. This separation often results in higher costs, energy losses during conversion, and increased system complexity. The newly developed device overcomes these limitations by combining both functions into one unit, streamlining performance while lowering material and operational requirements.

The Ministry of Science and Technology confirmed that the system, described as a photo-rechargeable supercapacitor, was designed by scientists at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences in Bengaluru, working under the Department of Science and Technology. By integrating energy generation and storage, the device eliminates the need for additional electronics used to manage voltage and current differences in hybrid systems.

Designed for compact and autonomous technologies

Earlier hybrid energy systems often required complex power management circuitry, which increased device size and reduced suitability for small-scale or autonomous applications. This made them less practical for miniaturised technologies such as wearables, portable electronics, and remote sensors.

The new approach addresses these challenges by significantly reducing the overall footprint of the energy system. Officials noted that the simplified design makes it especially suitable for compact devices that need reliable, long-term power without frequent maintenance or external charging sources.

Advanced materials at the core of the innovation

At the heart of the device is a novel use of nickel-cobalt oxide nanowires grown directly onto nickel foam without binders. Researchers employed a straightforward in situ hydrothermal process to create these structures, allowing the nanowires to form a highly porous and conductive three-dimensional network.

According to the official statement, each nanowire measures only a few nanometres in diameter but extends several micrometres in length. This structure enables efficient absorption of sunlight while simultaneously storing electrical charge. The architecture allows the same material to function both as a solar energy collector and as an electrode for a supercapacitor, a feature that sets the device apart from existing solutions.

Performance under real-world conditions

Testing showed that the prototype delivers a steady output voltage of 1.2 volts and retains about 88 percent of its capacitance even after 1,000 photo-charging cycles. The device also demonstrated consistent performance across a wide range of lighting conditions, from low indoor light to direct sunlight.

Researchers noted that this stability highlights the durability of the nanowire structure, which can withstand repeated mechanical and electrochemical stress. Such resilience is considered essential for devices intended for long-term use in varied environments.

Potential impact on clean energy access

One of the most promising aspects of the technology is its ability to operate independently of the electrical grid. This makes it suitable for deployment in remote or underserved regions where access to reliable power remains limited. By enabling self-charging systems that rely solely on sunlight, the device could reduce dependence on disposable batteries and lower environmental impact.

Officials said the development opens the door to affordable, eco-friendly energy solutions for next-generation electronics. With further refinement and scaling, the technology could support a wide range of applications, from health monitoring devices to off-grid communication systems, reinforcing India’s push toward sustainable and self-reliant energy innovation.