Jerusalem, 8 January, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israeli scientists have developed a new 3D-printed solar panel that is both semi-transparent and color-tunable, offering a flexible alternative to conventional solar technology, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem announced. The breakthrough could allow buildings to generate electricity without sacrificing natural light or aesthetic appeal, potentially transforming the way cities harness solar power.
The study, led by Prof. Shlomo Magdassi and Prof. Lioz Etgar from the university’s Institute of Chemistry and the Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, introduces a solar cell design that produces electricity while allowing architects and designers to control both how much light passes through and the color of the panels.
“At the heart of the design is a pattern of microscopic polymer pillars created using 3D printing,” Prof. Magdassi explained. “Our goal was to rethink how transparency is achieved in solar cells. By using 3D-printed polymer structures made from non-toxic, solvent-free materials, we can precisely control how light moves through the device in a way that is scalable and practical for real-world use.”
The tiny pillars act like carefully shaped openings that regulate light transmission without altering the solar material itself. The method also avoids high temperatures and toxic solvents, making it suitable for flexible surfaces and environmentally friendly production — a key consideration for architects and urban planners looking to integrate solar technology seamlessly into buildings.
Prof. Etgar highlighted the design’s visual flexibility. “What’s especially exciting is that we can customize both how the device looks and how flexible it is, without sacrificing performance. That makes this technology particularly relevant for solar windows and for adding solar functionality to existing buildings.” By adjusting the thickness of a transparent electrode layer, the panels can reflect selected wavelengths of light, producing different colors while continuing to generate electricity.
Laboratory tests showed power conversion efficiencies, of up to 9.2 percent, with roughly 35 percent visible transparency. The cells also maintained performance after repeated bending and extended operation, demonstrating durability essential for real-world architectural use.
Looking ahead, the researchers plan to enhance long-term durability through protective encapsulation and barrier layers.
Beyond the laboratory, the team envisions a range of real-world applications that could bring this flexible, color-tunable solar technology into everyday architecture and urban design.
The semi-transparent, color-tunable solar panels could transform how buildings generate electricity. They can be integrated into windows, glass walls, and façades, allowing offices, homes, and commercial spaces to produce power without blocking natural light or compromising design. Their flexibility also makes them suitable for curved or unconventional surfaces that traditional rigid panels cannot cover, opening the door to more creative and functional architectural designs.
Beyond new construction, the technology could retrofit existing buildings, adding solar functionality without major renovations. Color customization lets designers seamlessly match panels to a building’s aesthetic, while lightweight and flexible construction could extend applications to temporary structures or even portable devices. Combined with environmentally friendly manufacturing that avoids high heat and toxic solvents, these solar cells offer a practical, scalable solution for sustainable energy in urban and architectural environments.
The study was published in the peer-reviewed EES Solar journal.
Related Topics
