Japan's Sony develops new solar cell, mulls entry into business - report

TOKYO, May 26, 2008 (Thomson Financial via COMTEX) -- SNE | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- Sony Corp., the world's second-largest consumer electronics maker, has developed a new type of dye-sensitized solar cell that is capable of achieving an energy conversion efficiency of 10 percent, the minimum level seen as necessary for commercial use, the Nikkei newspaper reported at the weekend without citing sources.

Unlike conventional units, dye-sensitized solar cells do not use silicon, the report said.

The solar cell that Sony has developed uses a gel electrolyte instead of a liquid electrolyte.

Using a gel can prevent the electrolyte from leaking, therefore stabilizing the cell's performance.

With the technological breakthrough, Sony may consider entering the solar power business in the future, the Nikkei said.

($1 = 103.39 yen)

yasuhiko.seki@thomsonreuters.com

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