Imagine a whole city being a solar energy harvesting system. Seems fictional or futuristic? It's actually possible.

A new technology developed by a Michigan State University research team is supposed to turn transparent substances, from building windows to cell phone screens, into solar-collecting surfaces, without compromising their clarity.

How does it work?

The new invention, called transparent luminescent solar concentrator (TLSC), employs organic salts to absorb wavelengths of light that are already invisible to the human eye. In other words, glass skyscrapers can soon be generating electricity from solar energy.

Why is it important?

This is the first time a developed solar cell is as clear as window glass, so it can be used without blocking the view. More importantly, researchers' priorities in developing the new technology are power efficiency and maintaining affordability.

Watch the video to learn more about this breakthrough in the field of renewable energy.

Cover photo credit: Psdgraphics.com