U.S. Government Funds $61 Million For Photonics Clean Energy Technologies

To help the U.S. achieve its goal of a net-zero emissions economy, the U.S. Department of Energy is funding a range of innovative technologies powered by photonics.
The $61 million grant will benefit 50 small businesses focused on scientific innovation and clean energy development. These photonics projects cover a wide range of areas, including software for optimizing photovoltaic systems, SWIR technology for quantum sensing, holographic microscope development, and cost-effective polymer X-ray optics.
Osazda Energy is developing a software platform that optimizes photovoltaic systems through digital design, specifically the design of metal contacts on solar cells. This innovation not only improves cell efficiency, but also enhances the durability of the modules in extreme weather conditions, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of power generation interruptions.
Amethyst Research, on the other hand, is working on the development of an extended SWIR single photon avalanche photodetector for quantum imaging and sensing. This project aims to address key technology gaps that currently exist in this field and to enhance the infrared imaging capabilities needed for bioimaging and biosensing research.
Metrolaser is developing digital holographic microscopes for biological research. The project team will refine the commercial system hierarchy to provide biologists with powerful tools that promise to improve plant health and increase crop productivity.
Robot Nose Corporation, on the other hand, is collaborating with Argonne National Laboratory to develop a fast, economical manufacturing process for polymer-based refractive X-ray optics. The technology utilizes two-photon and single-photon polymer lithography to enable cost-effective fabrication of high-resolution and defect-free refractive X-ray optics.
These projects not only demonstrate the tremendous potential of photonics in the areas of clean energy and sustainability, but also demonstrate the U.S. government's commitment to promoting scientific and technological innovation to meet environmental goals.