In the realm of security and defence, an unconventional hero is emerging: photovoltaics. These tiny electronic devices, composed of mere micrometre-thick semiconductor layers, are revolutionising safety and control through remote monitoring systems. They are not shielding us in the traditional sense, but by delivering electric energy in a quiet, undetectable, and sustainable manner, they are safeguarding our daily lives in ways previously unimaginable.
Remote monitoring systems are gaining traction across various sectors, from private real estate to border supervision. These systems, equipped with advanced electronic cameras and sensor arrays, can monitor a plethora of parameters, from motion detection to face recognition. They can even prevent wildfires or detect dangerous gases, all while transmitting data over IP networks for AI-powered analysis. However, these systems face significant challenges, particularly in remote or temporary installations where traditional power sources are impractical or vulnerable to outages.
This is where photovoltaics steps in. Integrated with charge controllers and miniaturised battery systems, photovoltaic cells offer a promising solution for powering these surveillance systems. While current devices equipped with first-generation monocrystalline silicon micro-modules show promise, they still require optimisation in terms of integration, durability, and efficiency.
In the defence sector, the potential of photovoltaics is even more pronounced. Modern warfare relies heavily on electronics, from telecommunication to drone control. Traditional liquid-fuel power generators are ill-suited for these applications due to their weight, noise, and heat generation. Thin-film flexible PV modules, on the other hand, offer a lightweight, portable, and silent alternative. Experiments are underway to reduce their visibility in the optical and radar spectrum, with irregular module shaping and antireflective coatings being explored as potential solutions.
The future of security systems lies in robust and stable PV energy sources. One promising candidate is the Sb2S3 semiconductor compound, currently being investigated at TalTech. This material can be deposited using an inexpensive spray pyrolysis technique and offers potential conversion efficiency higher than traditional silicon. Its semi-transparency also opens up possibilities for integration with optical equipment.
As we stand on the brink of this photovoltaic revolution, one question looms: how might this news shape the development of the sector? The integration of photovoltaics into security and defence systems could lead to a paradigm shift, making these systems more autonomous, resilient, and sustainable. It could also spur innovation in PV technology, driving the development of more efficient, durable, and versatile photovoltaic materials. The future of security systems, powered by robust and stable PV energy sources, is not just bright—it’s solar-powered.