Santiago Scientists Harness Seaweed for Green Energy

Researchers at the University of Santiago are transforming seaweed into an efficient power source through biophotovoltaics. By spreading seaweed on biophotovoltaic panels, they convert light into electrical energy. Spearheaded by Federico Tasca, the project aims to improve energy efficiency and leverage the hardy nature of macroalgae.

Slimy, green seaweed floats in water-filled beakers, buckets, and bins in the University of Santiago's labs. Scientists in the Chilean capital are endeavoring to transform this algae into an efficient renewable power source. Their field, biophotovoltaics, employs photosynthetic organisms like seaweed to convert light into electrical energy using biophotovoltaic panels similar to solar ones.

"Algae use light to oxidize water, releasing electrons in the process," stated project leader Federico Tasca, adding that these electrons can be collected in electric circuits, while the oxygen released is an added benefit. Previous projects typically used microalgae, single-celled organisms, but seaweed is a macroalga, or multicellular organism, explained Tasca.

"Macroalgae are more robust, easier to work with, and simpler to harvest," he noted, while also acknowledging the method's current inefficiency. "Our investigation aims to improve the efficiency of electricity production," he said.

Seaweed could serve as an energy source where other alternatives are unavailable. "It's a good system for powering a light bulb or some LEDs," he noted. Algae remain under-researched, according to Alejandra Moenne, head of the University of Santiago's marine biology department.

"I've always said algae are like a treasure chest buried at sea. They are packed with genes and molecules we're still discovering, which might one day be used for medicinal purposes," Moenne remarked.

(With inputs from agencies.)