solar cells

Cultural  

1. Devices, usually made of semiconductors, that convert sunlight directly into electric current (see also current). Solar cells power artificial satellites and are often used in remote locations of the Earth.

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At present, solar cells are too expensive and inefficient to be used for commercial generation of electricity.

Example Sentences

"If we could get to grips with these processes, then we could use this understanding to create better solar cells, more efficient energy grid systems, and discover drugs for previously untreatable diseases," she said.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

First Solar’s technology doesn’t use crystalline silicon, commonly used in solar cells, and the company has said it isn’t dependen China’s solar supply chains.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

In silicon-based solar cells, this challenge is addressed by eliminating defects that could capture charges before they reach the electrodes.

From Science Daily • Apr. 10, 2026

China’s habit of flooding energy-poor nations with low-cost solar cells, batteries, and EVs isn’t slowing down.

From Slate • Mar. 12, 2026

I'll probably have more solar cells than before, and maybe a battery from the Hab.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir