Micro-photosynthetic power cell (μPSC) is one of the emerging energy harvesting technologies which harvests energy using light (photosynthesis) and carbohydrate metabolism in dark (respiration) for low-power (mW range) applications. μPSC is a green technology that not only uses solar power and algae, but also provides power in both dark and light conditions. This perspective article provides state of the art of μPSC technology in terms of fabrication, mathematical modeling and energy harvesting circuit design. Currently, low power densities and high cost are the factors limiting μPSCs commercialization. Key aspects and methods to enhance the performance and decrease the cost are proposed in this paper.

In this work, we provide a cost comparison of micro-photosynthetic power cells (µPSC) with the well-established photovoltaic (PV) cells for ultra-low power and low power applications. We also suggest avenues for the performance improvement of µPSC. To perform cost comparison, we considered two case studies, which are development of energy systems for: (i) A typical mobile-phone battery charging (low power application) and (ii) powering a humidity sensor (ultra-low power application). For both the cases, we have elucidated the steps in designing energy systems based on PV and µPSC technologies. Based on the design, we have considered the components needed and their costs to obtain total cost for developing energy systems using both PV and µPSC technologies. Currently, µPSCs based energy systems are costlier compared to their PV counterparts. We have provided the avenues for improving µPSC performance, niche application areas, and aspects in which µPSCs are comparable to PV cells. With a huge potential to develop low-cost and high performing technologies, this emerging technology can share the demand on PV technologies for ultra-low power applications.

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Biophotoelectrochemical cells are gaining prominence in recent years due to the necessity of sustainable power generation at both micro-and macroscale. Toward this direction, microphotosynthetic power cells (μ-PSC) play a vital role in generating clean energy. The μ-PSC generates sustainable power under light and in the dark through the photosynthesis and respiration of photosynthetic microorganisms or cells, such as cyanobacteria and green algae. Herein, particulars on μ-PSCs from fundamentals to real-time applications are provided. The state of the art of μ-PSCs, in terms of the principle of operation, design, and materials is presented. μ-PSCs reported to date are classified based on design, operating parameters, and photosynthetic organisms. In addition, details on the metrics and factors influencing the performance of μ-PSCs are also discussed. The need for the development of mathematical and electrical equivalent models of μ-PSCs and the progress in these areas are briefed. Current challenges for μ-PSCs' commercialization are identified as high cost and low power densities, and the factors that are leading to low power density and high cost are explored and are also discussed. In addition, the potential solutions to overcome these challenges are investigated.