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The Department of Science and Technology (DST) Indian scientists developed a solar-powered energy storage system that operates as both an energy collection system and an energy storage system which enables clean energy production through self-sustaining power systems.

The Ministry of Science and Technology has confirmed through an official announcement that researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) in Bengaluru developed a new device which scientists call a photo-rechargeable supercapacitor through their work under DST.

This system uses a combined technology that integrates both energy collection and storage functions which results in lower operational costs and space needs while minimizing energy waste that occurs during power conversion processes.

Traditional solar-powered systems must use extra power management systems which enable them to resolve voltage and current differences that occur between solar panels and storage devices.

The system becomes more complicated because of this requirement which causes the solution to become less useful for portable devices that operate in autonomous mode.

The newly developed supercapacitor addresses these limitations by enabling direct solar charging without external circuitry.

The innovation uses binder-free nickel-cobalt oxide (NiCo₂O₄) nanowires which researchers achieved by growing the material through a straightforward in-situ hydrothermal method on nickel foam.

The nanowires display an extreme miniature diameter of only a few nanometres while their length reaches several micrometres to create a three-dimensional conductive network with high porosity.

The nanostructure enables efficient sunlight absorption which leads to the storage of electrical charge to support both functions as a solar energy collector and supercapacitor electrode.

The integrated design increases operational efficiency while it enhances both the lifespan and stability of the device.

The performance testing results produced positive outcomes. The device maintained a consistent output voltage of 1.2 volts while it preserved almost 88 per cent of its capacitance after 1,000 photocharging cycles.

The system achieved effective operation throughout various lighting situations which included both insufficient indoor light and strong sunlight conditions proving its suitability for actual use.

The system maintains stability because the nanowire structure can endure mechanical loads and electrochemical processes during extended operational times.

The technology provides appropriate support for sustained operation in portable electronics and wearable devices and remote sensing systems.

The self-charging power system serves its main function in locations which do not have access to electricity. The system enables off-grid technologies to function because it combines energy generation and storage into one small unit which decreases the need for fossil fuels and standard batteries.

The development serves as a crucial advancement Because it leads to sustainable budget-friendly energy solutions which also protect the environment. The study establishes India's position as a leader in cutting-edge clean energy research and development.