Filipino engineering student Carvey Ehren Maigue created a groundbreaking solar panel system called AuREUS (Aurora Renewable Energy and UV Sequestration), which turns food waste into a clean energy solution. Unlike traditional solar panels that rely on direct sunlight, AuREUS captures ultraviolet (UV) light — which is still present on cloudy days — and converts it into electricity.
The secret lies in upcycled fruits and vegetables. These contain natural compounds that absorb UV rays and re-emit them as visible light, which is then harvested by regular solar cells to generate power.
What sets AuREUS apart is its ability to work without direct sun exposure, making it perfect for urban spaces, windows, and building facades. It’s not only efficient, but also environmentally friendly — reducing food waste while producing clean energy. For this brilliant fusion of sustainability and science, Carvey was awarded the 2020 James Dyson Award for Sustainability — a well-deserved recognition of his vision for a greener future.
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