SBIR Phase I: Power-dense flexible solar panels for high-value markets

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $305,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is the development of a novel power-dense, flexible solar panel technology designed to meet the urgent energy demands of rapidly growing sectors such as aerospace, electric vehicles, the Internet of Things (IoT), and buildings. These high-specific-power solar panels leverage advanced transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) materials, enabling power-per-weight performance up to 10 times higher than current alternatives. The innovation has the potential to unlock transformative applications, from extending the range, lifetime, and capabilities of drones and satellites to powering trillions of smart IoT devices and electrifying vehicles and building surfaces. The immediate target market, including satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles, is estimated at approximately $20 billion, with broader market potential exceeding $140 billion by 2027. The project supports domestic energy independence, job creation, economic growth, and educational advancement in the energy and semiconductor sectors. The intellectual merit of this project lies in advancing a high-efficiency, scalable solar cell technology based on TMDs such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), tungsten disulfide (WS₂), and tungsten diselenide (WSe₂). These materials possess optimal band gaps, high optical absorption, and environmental durability ideal for thin, flexible photovoltaics. While prior research has demonstrated promising i

Key facts

NSF award ID
2451805
Awardee
ARINNA, INC (CA)
SAM.gov UEI
HCL5EQZE6A59
PI
Koosha Nassiri Nazif
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Energy Storage or Transmission
Estimated total
$305,000
Funds obligated
$305,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
06/01/2025 → 05/31/2026