Researchers at MIT have come up with a way to clean solar panels without using any water. It's estimated that washing solar panels requires about 10 billion gallons per year. But leaving panels dusty or dirty means their efficacy is significantly reduced. The MIT-proposed method uses electrostatic repulsion, where an electrode that glides above panel electrically charges dust particles and subsequently repels them. | Mashable

In late 2025, MIT’s ultra-thin solar cells have moved from laboratory "miracles" to a scalable fabrication reality. These cells, which are as thin as a soap bubble but significantly more durable, are now being laminated onto high-strength fabrics to power everything from emergency shelters to wearable electronics. "Miracle" Engineering and Scalability The core breakthrough is a scalable fabrication technique that moves away from expensive, complex vacuum-based processes. Printing Power: Instead

MIT researchers have created ultra-thin solar panels with sticker backs allowing you to stick them anywhere you need immediate power. They deliver 18 times as much power per kilogram as traditional solar panels and can be used in more places with less set up. These ultra-portable panels can make the difference in remote regions where emergencies require more power. | Mashable