When someone mixes the phrases “inkjet printing” with “solar cells” it always gets my attention. Technology has moved ahead by leaps and bounds; now we have something called Power Plastic®, an inexpensive, lightweight, and flexible light-activated photo-reactive material that is printed using roll-to-roll printing processes.

Konarka Technologies, headquartered in Lowell, MA, has developed a process to use currently-available coating and printing machines and technologies to produce continuous solar cells virtually anywhere. They can be incorporated in tents, awnings, roofs, windows and window coverings.

Imagine what custom colors and patterns could mean for architects; buildings could be wrapped in appealing images and designs, avoiding the panels that have to be used today. Interior designers could implement window shades that generate power when lowered - great for that southwest exposure that drives up air conditioning costs!

Even the Defense Department is exploring fabrics with solar capabilities. You too could be a walking power generator!