Sunlight to Signals: Solar Panel as Active Data Receiver

Bridging the world with energy efficient communication using solar panels as communication receivers is an innovative step toward sustainable connectivity. This approach not only leverages renewable energy to power communication infrastructure but also enhances the efficiency and reach of networks, particularly in remote and underserved areas. Light communication offers high-speed data transfer and is cost-effective due to the vast unlicensed spectrum available. However, there is a challenge of high capacitive effect leading to sluggish switching response that limits solar panel operation to a few kbps. This paper presents the experimental validation of analog circuitry that improves the solar panel response, resulting in high-speed data transmission. The result presents a data rate of 10.7 Mbps over a solar panel with a received optical power of 0.36 mW transmitted using infrared light-emitting diodes. The fusion of solar power and communication technology presents a solution that addresses environmental concerns while fostering global connectivity, ensuring that even the most isolated regions can participate in the digital age.