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Johns Hopkins races toward net-zero with solar and photobattery breakthroughs by 2040

A scientist's spray-paint solar cells and self-charging batteries could redefine clean energy. Can her lab's innovations fast-track a zero-emission future?

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2 min read
The image shows an aerial view of a large solar farm in the middle of a field, surrounded by trees,...
The image shows an aerial view of a large solar farm in the middle of a field, surrounded by trees, grass, plants, and water. On the ground, there are solar panels, and a train can be seen travelling along the railway track. This image is representative of the renewable energy industry, which is known for its high efficiency and cost-effective solutions.

Johns Hopkins races toward net-zero with solar and photobattery breakthroughs by 2040

Johns Hopkins University has set a bold target to reach net-zero emissions by 2040 under its Climate Action and Sustainability Plan. Meanwhile, researchers at the university are pushing forward with cutting-edge technology to make off-grid power more sustainable. A key figure in this effort is Susanna Thon, whose work on photobatteries and advanced solar cells could change how energy is generated and stored. Thon has played a major role in launching the Center for Advanced Electro-Photonics with 2D Materials. The centre focuses on developing ultra-lightweight, flexible solar cells that could be used in new ways. Alongside Yayuan Liu, she has also designed a passive solar cell system capable of capturing carbon dioxide from the air.

With colleague Sara Thoi, Thon is working on photobatteries—devices that recharge in sunlight. Their research explores combining these batteries with metal-organic frameworks, allowing both energy generation and storage in a single unit. Another innovation involves flexible solar cells that can be 'spray painted' directly onto batteries, making them easier to produce and apply. Thon's previous work includes creating a more flexible and efficient LED array with Charbel Rizk. This technology could lead to lighter, more adaptable lighting solutions. Beyond Hopkins, institutions like MIT, Stanford, and the University of Cambridge are also advancing photobattery research, with Stanford and Cambridge focusing on perovskite-based systems. Chinese universities, such as Tsinghua, are leading efforts to scale up production. Johns Hopkins itself has already made progress in sustainability. Currently, 77% of its purchased electricity comes from renewable or carbon-free sources. The university's campuses also benefit from 39% tree canopy coverage, helping reduce its environmental impact.

The university's 2040 net-zero goal aligns with ongoing research into cleaner energy solutions. Thon's work on photobatteries and flexible solar cells could provide practical tools for off-grid power. If successful, these technologies may support broader efforts to cut emissions and improve energy efficiency.

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