Enhancing Indoor Photovoltaics: Optimization of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells for the Internet of Things

The rapid expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the increasing reliance on technology in the past decade have intensified the demand for sustainable and efficient energy solutions for powering small indoor devices. Low-light photovoltaics represents an innovative approach to harnessing ambient light in homes and workplaces, and among available technologies, Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) stand out as a particularly promising option. DSSCs operate by mimicking photosynthesis and typically consist of a photosensitizing dye, a titanium dioxide (TiO₂) photoanode, and a redox couple electrolyte. Unlike conventional silicon-based photovoltaics, they can effectively capture diffuse indoor light, making them highly suited for powering sensors and low-power electronics. Their cost-effectiveness, structural flexibility, and ability to be tailored to specific light sources further enhance their appeal. A key factor in DSSC performance under indoor conditions is the compatibility between the dye’s absorption spectrum and the emission spectrum of artificial lighting, such as LEDs and fluorescent lamps. Co-sensitization strategies and the use of dyes with D-π-A (push–pull) structures can significantly improve light harvesting under narrow-spectrum indoor sources. In this study, we focus on optimizing dye selection and co-sensitization to improve DSSC efficiency for indoor applications. Preliminary results show that specific dyes, such as Y123 and TP1, outperform others under particular indoor light sources due to superior spectral matching. Notably, TP1, an affordable and easily synthesized dye, achieved results comparable to the more expensive Y123 under indoor conditions These findings highlight the critical role of dye-lamp matching and device architecture in maximizing DSSC performance. Future work will extend testing to modern LED lamps and refine dye combinations to enhance stability, efficiency, and integration, contributing to the development of sustainable, cost-effective energy solutions for indoor IoT devices.