ORNL engineers are working to convert their sunlight-based hybrid lighting technology into a multifunctional system that also produces electricity. Using advanced optics and concentrating photovoltaic materials, researchers are developing a system using the infrared portion of sunlight to generate electricity. The system is also "intelligent" in its ability to automatically switch the light from illuminating the inside of buildings to generating electricity based on the building's energy needs. The research is funded through DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Solar Technologies Program.
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