"Hairy" solar cells make better photovoltaics?

Materials scientists in the USA and in Germany have come up with methods of growing silicon nanowires in upright fashion on for example an indium tin oxide conductive layer. The wires, coated with either polymer or spun glass, are used as a series of channels to bring electrons more efficiently from the solar cell surface to the electrode.

The technique is one of many being investigated to increase the efficiency of solar cell energy collection that holds the promise of cheap permanent power.

See ecotech daily. Also, Science Daily.