CeNS Bengaluru scientists develop self-charging, sunlight-powered supercapacitor
Scientists at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, an autonomous institute of DST, developed a photo-rechargeable supercapacitor that both captures and stores solar energy in one device.
Summary
The Department of Science and Technology said on 30 January 2026 that CeNS, Bengaluru, has developed a sunlight-powered 'photo-capacitor' that captures and stores solar energy in a single integrated device. Normal solar systems need separate panels and batteries plus power electronics; combining both steps reduces cost, energy loss and size, which helps portable, wearable and off-grid devices.
Key facts
- Device
- Photo-rechargeable supercapacitor (photo-capacitor)
- Developed by
- Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru — autonomous institute under DST
- Feature
- Captures and stores solar energy in one device
- Uses
- Portable, wearable and off-grid technologies
Practice MCQs 1 questions
A photo-rechargeable supercapacitor that captures and stores solar energy in a single device (reported January 2026) was developed by which institute?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Bengaluru
PIB: The device was developed by CeNS, Bengaluru, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology.