Lenovo has introduced its proof of concept solar-powered laptop using back contact solar cells
It claims over 24% conversion efficiency for these cells that can power up to 1 hour of video playback
Infinix has also presented its SolarEnergy-Reserving technology in the form of a smartphone charging case powered by perovskite solar cells
The one defining feature of solar PV technology is its versatility, and the ultimate expression of this will be when self-sustaining devices, powered by solar cells, will be in our hands. Technology companies are already making this happen as China’s Lenovo recently unveiled its solar-powered concept laptop using back contact (BC) solar cells with over 24% conversion efficiency.
Called Yoga Solar PC, Lenovo unveiled this proof of concept (POC) laptop at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Spain. With solar panels directly integrated into the laptop, the 15 mm thin device can absorb and convert direct sunlight in 20 minutes to power up to 1 hour of video playback.
It is the world’s 1st ultraslim solar-powered PC, claims Lenovo, and weighs 1.22 kg. Earlier in 2011, Samsung had introduced what it termed back then as the world’s 1st 10.1 inch solar-powered netbook NC215S with a large solar panel on its cover. It weighed about 1.32 kg.
The Lenovo Yoga Solar PC can generate power even in low-light conditions, sustaining battery charge when the PC is idle, according to its creator. It also has a ‘breakthrough’ Dynamic Solar Tracking system that constantly measures the solar panel’s current and voltage, automatically adjusting the charger’s settings to prioritize sending the harvested energy to the system.
“The Yoga Solar PC proof of concept is designed for those who turn any space—indoors or outdoors—into a productive workspace. The device aims to bridge the gap between functionality and environmental awareness and represents Lenovo’s vision of achieving a future where renewable energy and innovation are intrinsically intertwined,” stated Lenovo.
Additionally, Lenovo also introduced the Solar Power Kit for Yoga POC, which utilizes Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) to optimize solar energy conversion into usable power. It comes with a detachable USB-C solar panel that can be attached to a bag, backpack, tent, or tree and charged anywhere there is sunlight.
At the same MWC 2025 event, another solar-powered POC device is catching attention – a smartphone solar charging phone case by China’s Infinix. This device uses perovskite solar cells, which are thinner than the conventional traditional silicon solar cells.
Infinix calls it SolarEnergy-Reserving Technology, which it combines with intelligent artificial intelligence (AI) driven Sunflower Wireless Charging Technology. This, it explains, is inspired by the heliotropic plants that naturally orient towards light.
It can capture light from both indoor and outdoor sources to generate electricity, allowing for energy storage of up to 2W, with potential for future developments.
Infinix said, “While this technology debuts in mobile devices, Infinix envisions broader applications across digital devices and wearables, signaling a new direction for sustainable consumer tech. This future-oriented approach aligns with the growing demand for eco-conscious solutions without compromising performance or convenience.”
While these are still at the POC stage, these devices show the potential of solar PV to become self-sustaining for the world’s energy generation needs.
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