Publication date: 11th March 2026
In the realm of third-generation molecular light-harvesting technologies, our focus is on efficiently capturing and recycling diverse light sources, including indoor, artificial, ambient and diffused sunlight using custom engineered dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). DSCs stand out for their high efficiency, exceeding 40%, and their suitability for indoor use due to their lower cost, stability and ease of production.1-2 Recent innovations, such as co-sensitization approach, introduction of dual-species copper-based electrolytes replacing traditional iodide systems, use of bilayer TiO2-ZnO nanostructured electrodes, have addressed recombination issues, enhancing performance of these innovative nano-photovoltaic devices under indoor and ambient lighting conditions.1-4 These advancements not only improve efficiency but also promote environmentally friendly practices, positioning DSCs as a viable option to replace conventional one-time-use primary batteries for powering electronic devices, facilitating self-powered applications thereby reducing the carbon footprint.
My presentation will highlight CSIR-NIIST’s pursuit of self-reliance in indoor light-harvesting technologies underscored by advancements in the domain of DSCs and the fascinating lab to land transition being realized developing indigenous scale-up production equipment’s, innovative self-powered products over the past decade in my research lab at CSIR-NIIST. At NIIST, our endeavors extend to the custom design and optimization of these indoor light harvesters, utilizing tailor-made molecules, materials, and device architectures realizing world record efficiencies of 40% and above. By nurturing capabilities, CSIR-NIIST strives to establish a formidable position in the global indoor photovoltaic landscape, and propelling India towards self-sufficiency in emerging photovoltaic sectors.
Dr Suraj Soman acknowledges financial support from DST-Solar Challenge Award (DST/ETC/CASE/RES/2023/05(C)/(G)) and the CSIR-FTT project (FTT 060511)
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