Sufeller Power

About Sufeller Power

Sphelar Power Corporation, founded in Kyoto, Japan, develops and manufactures the world's first spherical micro solar cells. The company was established on May 17, 2012, as a spin-off from Kyosemi Corporation to commercialize the "Sphelar" solar cell technology. The core invention dates back to 1995 when founder Josuke Nakata conceived of a three-dimensional, light-receiving solar cell, questioning why they had to be flat when sunlight comes from all directions.

Sphelar Power's core technology consists of bead-like solar cells, typically 1-2 mm in diameter, that can capture direct, reflected, and dispersed light from any angle. This omnidirectional capability makes them more efficient in real-world conditions compared to traditional flat panels, especially on cloudy days or in high-latitude regions. The manufacturing process, which involves crystallizing molten silicon droplets in microgravity conditions, is designed to reduce silicon waste compared to the slicing method for conventional cells.

The company's business model revolves around the development, manufacturing, and sale of these spherical solar cells and their application in a wide range of products. Its product lines include: Sphelar BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics), which are high-transparency solar modules for windows and curved surfaces; the Sphelar EIPV Series for low-power applications and energy harvesting for sensors and wireless devices; and Sphelar Design Products like lanterns, garden lights, and flashlights. The company has also developed photovoltaic yarn and textiles, enabling the integration of power generation into flexible and wearable materials. Sphelar Power raised $18.4 million in a Series A round in April 2012, led by INCJ (the Innovation Network Corporation of Japan), to scale its business.