By Daniel P. Tapaoan, Jr. 

Regius Energy Corporation, a global multi-energy company based in the United Kingdom, has introduced the nanoparticle thin film solar cells to Mariano Marcos State University in a seminar held yesterday, June 7, at the Center for Flexible Learning. 

Prof. Albert Chan Tu, the company’s chief executive officer, discussed the benefits of manufacturing the solar cells that use quantum dot technology as a highly transformative and advanced renewable resource. He was joined by Mr. Minh Nguyen, nanotechnology expert. 

In the lecture, Prof. Tu explained that nanoparticle solar cells (or third generation solar cells) are an emerging technology that uses nanoscale materials, like quantum dots, to absorb and convert sunlight into electricity. This ability makes it overcome the limitations of traditional solar cells.

Quantum dots are semiconductor particles, which are only a few nanometers wide that can absorb and remit energy when exposed to light. This is a property which is exceptionally beneficial in solar cell technology. “These solar cells have enhanced light absorption capabilities and improved efficiency, thus can present a multitude of prospects in the Philippines,” Prof. Tu said. 

The Regius Energy CEO added that manufacturing the advanced technology can help address the country’s energy needs sustainability, contribute to global environment goals, and enhance its economic growth and energy security.  

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis thanked the renewable energy experts for introducing the technology to the university. She expressed high hopes that the seminar would pave the way for the adoption of nanoparticle solar cells in Ilocos Norte. She also looks forward to partnering with the corporation to further strengthen MMSU’s renewable energy endeavors.

The seminar was attended by faculty and students of the College of Engineering, and personnel of the National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center (NBERIC) and Research Directorate.

Engr. Nathaniel Ericson Mateo, NBERIC OIC-director, said the seminar further inspired the new directorate in fulfilling its goal of establishing a fully renewable energy university and pioneer the development of smart systems in MMSU campuses. Currently, the NBERIC is advancing renewable energy initiatives such as production of biofuels, solar energy systems, and exploration of other bioenergy resources. 

The UK-based company aims to transform the global energy industry by promoting solar energy, wind power, bioenergy, ocean energy, and hydrogen. (HLY/JVBT/StratCom)