Ambient Photonics is advancing dye-sensitized solar cell technology, allowing it to produce power even in low light while maintaining a very small footprint. This will allow it to replace small batteries in electronics with solar cells capable of producing energy at all times.
The company’s cells use dye treated with a proprietary mix of molecules sandwiched between thin sheets of glass. When exposed to light, the dye releases electrons in a process similar to photosynthesis. These electrons are captured by a conductive glass layer, generating electricity. The technology works even in low-light conditions, making it suitable for indoor devices.
Ambient’s cells are being used to power low-energy devices like remote controls, shelf displays, sensors, and a new Lenovo keyboard. Compared to traditional solar cells from the 1980s, Ambient’s cells harvest three times more energy. Although the company has not disclosed full pricing, CEO Bates Marshall stated that their goal is to match battery costs.
The cells are manufactured at Ambient’s first factory in Scotts Valley, California, where full automation is helping drive down production costs.
Ambient’s life cycle assessment claims the solar cells emit 90% less carbon dioxide per unit of energy generated compared to conventional batteries. While some additional hardware may add environmental costs, the cells’ long lifespan eliminates the need for frequent battery replacements, reducing the carbon footprint associated with maintenance and logistics.
Ambient expects to ramp up production to hundreds of thousands of cells per month in 2025, targeting millions by 2026. It has already shipped “mass production-level” volumes to Lenovo and several unnamed major customers. The company is also preparing to launch a Series B funding round to support further expansion.
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