In the past, we've discussed potential moves in the field of organic photovoltaics.

This is what many researchers are looking to as the next evolution of solar.

But after attending the Organic Photovoltaics conference in Philadelphia last week, I suspect it might be some time before we see any solid plays in this area.

Organic photovoltaics (OPV) offers the promise of significant disruption in pricing and aesthetics, as well as impressive efficiencies in low light conditions. OPV materials are also flexible and form-fitting. This stuff can potentially be wrapped around or even painted onto various materials.

But in order for OPV companies to even consider competing, they have to at least measure up to the efficiency we see in current thin-film, where we've now seen levels at around 9% commercially, and 19.5% in the lab.

Today, based on assessments from the Department of Energy, and information both Nick Hodge and I have picked up while attending OPV conferences in 2007 and 2008, we're currently looking at OPV efficiencies at between 5% and 6.25%.

This stuff is not ready for prime-time power generation, as it simply cannot compete with other forms of solar power generation or even conventional forms of power generation.

That being said, we do see one angle that could really help propel OPV in the early stages. And that would be for applications which don't require significant efficiencies.

Organic Photovoltaic Applications

For example, imagine OPV applied to your cell phone.

Unlike conventional solar technologies, under low light conditions, like those in your office, home or conference room setting, OPV could continuously trickle-charge your phone. It could be possible that because of this OPV application, you'd never have to worry about your phone completely losing power.

Or perhaps OPV applied to the roof of a hybrid or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.

While sitting out in a parking lot all day, or even while you're driving, the system could be charging your lithium-ion battery pack.

These are the kinds of applications that were being discussed at last week's OPV conference.

So at this point, we'll certainly continue to monitor the progress of OPV—but we expect the early investment opportunities to be found in applications like those just mentioned.

Because even though this is not the kind of power generation you can use to power your home...it still has the potential to offer disruptions in other markets.

And quite frankly, we really don't care where the profits come from.

As long as they keep on coming!

To a new way of life, and a new generation of wealth...

Jeff

P.S. One of our newer services, Alternative Energy Speculator, is a great conduit for taking profits from some of the more speculative angles alternative energy, like organic photovoltaics. Read this report to learn more about the service and one the recent lucrative profit opportunities. 

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