IBM Predicts Solar Sidewalks in 5 Years

According to IBM’s annual “Next Five in Five” report, thin-film solar cells will be embedded in driveways, sidewalks, paint, rooftop, and windows within 5 years.

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The prediction is based on an expected drop in the price of thin-film solar cells, which are 100 times thinner than silicon solar cells.

Thin-film solar cells are already cheaper than silicon-wafer cells because of a production process that allows them to be printed and arranged on any flexible backing, including cell-phones, notebook computers, and clothing.

Other IBM predictions include digital shopping assistants, personalized genetic maps, and advances in voice recognition software.

Photo Credit: NREL

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