Turning Food Waste into Power: Filipino Student’s AuREUS Solar Panels Harness UV Light Without Sunlight
In a groundbreaking leap for renewable energy, Filipino engineering student Carvey Ehren Maigue has developed an innovative solar panel system called AuREUS — short for Aurora Renewable Energy and UV Sequestration. This remarkable invention can generate electricity from ultraviolet (UV) light, even in the absence of direct sunlight, using recycled fruit and vegetable waste.
A Brighter Future from Food Waste
Traditional solar panels rely on visible sunlight to produce energy, making them less efficient on cloudy days or in shaded environments. AuREUS changes that entirely. It uses organic materials derived from discarded fruits and vegetables, which contain natural compounds capable of absorbing UV rays and converting them into visible light. This light is then transformed into electricity through standard solar cells.
In simple terms, AuREUS panels work even when the sun isn’t shining directly, capturing the invisible UV rays that still reach the Earth’s surface on overcast days. This means clean energy can now be harvested in places where traditional solar setups struggle — from tall city buildings to indoor spaces.
Revolutionizing Urban Energy
One of AuREUS’s most exciting applications is in urban and architectural design. The panels can be integrated into windows, walls, or building facades, turning entire structures into self-sustaining energy sources. Beyond that, they offer a visually appealing and sustainable alternative to bulky rooftop panels, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for green smart cities.
Sustainability at Its Core
What makes AuREUS especially powerful is its dual environmental impact — it not only produces renewable energy but also helps reduce food waste. By repurposing organic waste materials, the technology contributes to a circular economy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions linked to decomposing food.
Global Recognition
Carvey Ehren Maigue’s visionary invention earned him the 2020 James Dyson Award for Sustainability, a global recognition that celebrates innovative solutions to real-world problems. His work stands as a testament to how creativity and science can merge to address both energy and environmental challenges.
A Ray of Hope for the Future
AuREUS represents more than just a technological breakthrough — it’s a symbol of hope for a world facing energy and waste crises. By turning everyday food waste into a source of clean power, Maigue has illuminated a new path toward a sustainable, resource-efficient future where innovation truly shines, even without sunlight.