Researchers have tested solar panels at depths of up to 10 metres underwater, potentially opening the way for longer-lasting power supplies for subsea equipment without relying solely on batteries.

The panels were designed to capture blue and green wavelengths of sunlight that penetrate seawater more effectively.

During a two-hour trial near China’s Weizhou Islands, the technology generated 324 milliwatt-hours of electricity at a depth of 10 metres.

The research, published in Joule, builds on earlier studies conducted at depths of two metres or less.

The researchers used perovskite solar cells, which can be tailored to absorb specific wavelengths and are an alternative to conventional silicon cells.

Laboratory tests showed the cells converted about 35% of available sunlight into electricity under conditions replicating 10-metre depths.

Based on testing, the researchers estimate the panels could operate continuously underwater for around 5.5 years, potentially supporting subsea sensors, monitoring systems and other equipment. -OGN/TradeArabia News Service