Solar cells with pigment from fungi

“MycoVolt is developing a new type of sustainable flexible solar cells based on a natural pigment from fungi. These solar cells are light, pliable and paper thin. They can be used on surfaces where regular solar cells are not suitable – for instance on building façades, vehicles or electronic devices. With the support of the Vissing Foundation, MycoVolt is developing the technology further, and aims to demonstrate a prototype in 2027.

MycoVolt is a spin-out from Aalborg University, where students and researchers are working to make this type of solar cell more stable and durable. The key component is a natural pigment, xylindein, which is produced by fungi, and is particularly resistant to breakdown by sunlight.
At the same time, the technology could contribute to more sustainable and robust energy supplies. Instead of imported conventional materials, MycoVolt uses a natural pigment that can be produced in Denmark. The solar cells are manufactured with a low CO₂ footprint, and the fungi can be cultivated on waste products, e.g. from the building industry, thus supporting more circular production.