Ambient Photonics Featured in Bloomberg News
Bates Marshall standing in Ambient Photonics manufacturing facility. Photographer: Rachel Bujalski/Bloomberg
A recent Bloomberg News article highlighted Scotts Valley's Ambient Photonics and its potential to revolutionize battery use with high-powered solar cells. The in-depth piece focused on Ambient's innovative low-light photovoltaic (PV) cells, which efficiently convert indoor light into electricity, mimicking the principles of photosynthesis. These advanced cells boast a higher power density than conventional indoor solar cells, enabling continuous operation in devices without the need for disposable batteries or frequent recharging.
The Bloomberg feature underscored the significant environmental advantages of Ambient's technology in mitigating electronic waste and reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional battery production. The article powerfully stated, “In a world that produced a record 62 million tons of e-waste in 2022…finding a way to reduce the use of carbon- and resource-intensive batteries produced has never been greater.” The technology's versatility is evident in Ambient's collaborations with companies like Lenovo and its integration into a range of devices, including mice, keyboards, and IoT sensors.
The article shared that Ambient Photonics secured $61 million in Series A funding and $17.5 million in debt financing, which enabled them to establish their first factory in Scotts Valley, California. This factory now produces dye-sensitized solar cells. Unlike traditional rooftop silicon photovoltaics, Ambient's cells utilize a unique dye and molecular mix between two glass sheets to convert photons into energy. CEO of Ambient Photonics, Bates Marshall, also discussed the current state of the company and their plans after the announcement of the high tariffs set by President Donald Trump and the current administration.
See additional photos and read more about how Ambient Photonics is a key innovator driving battery-free technology with their unique low-light solar cells, strategic partnerships, and sustainable manufacturing practices in the article below.