Chinese scientists have successfully tested the world's first underwater solar power station, conducting offshore trials at a depth of ten meters. This breakthrough opens new avenues for powering submerged operations and facilities. A specialized team from Yunnan University developed this unique
station, employing an innovative photovoltaic system based on perovskite lead halides—a class of semiconductor materials. Its effectiveness was demonstrated at 10 meters beneath the surface. The submerged facility successfully charged batteries and powered an LED panel, confirming the feasibility of harnessing
solar energy even in the "faint greenish-blue ocean twilight." Scientist Wenxue Zhang from Yunnan University noted that previous underwater solar cell innovations were limited to shallow depths not exceeding two meters, far from realistic operating conditions. This current development provides
the first practical proof of solar cells' operational viability in real-world conditions at a depth of ten meters. Developers foresee broad applications for this technology in powering underwater sensors, detectors, cameras, and communication systems, as well as serving as a vital
energy source for robots and various submersible devices.
