In a breakthrough that could transform how we power electronic devices in hard-to-reach areas, scientists at the University of Ottawa have developed a next-generation laser-powered system capable of transmitting energy across long distances through fibre-optic cables.

While today’s world is filled with mobile gadgets and tangled charging cords, remote and rural regions often struggle with basic telecom infrastructure. Harsh environments and long distances make it difficult to deliver power using traditional methods.

That challenge could soon be a thing of the past.

A team at the university’s SUNLAB — one of Canada’s top solar cell research centers — has collaborated with Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems to enhance what’s known as “photonic power conversion.” This method converts laser light traveling through optical fibre into usable electricity, a concept already in use, but limited by poor energy efficiency and distance constraints.

“In standard fibre-based power systems, a lot of laser energy is lost during transmission,” said Professor Karin Hinzer, lead scientist at SUNLAB. “Our new technology allows the fibre to extend much farther while retaining efficient power delivery.”

The key advancement lies in the use of multi-junction photonic power converters. Unlike older systems that relied on single semiconductor layers, this design stacks multiple semiconductor junctions—each tuned to absorb a different wavelength of light—making energy capture and conversion dramatically more effective.

The result: a laser-powered system that can deliver over 2 volts of electricity with 53% efficiency—a significant leap from past systems that capped out at just 0.6 volts with similar efficiency.

According to lead author Gavin Forcade, the team’s innovation makes it possible to send both power and data over distances exceeding one kilometer—an unachievable feat for many current fibre systems. This opens the door to powering remote sensors, telecommunications hardware, and infrastructure in places where laying power cables isn’t feasible.

Beyond remote communications, the technology has a wide range of potential uses. It could improve safety in volatile environments by eliminating sparking risks, enhance smart grid systems with more reliable sensor power, and even deliver energy wirelessly to spacecraft, drones, and lunar vehicles.

“This isn’t just about telecoms anymore,” said Hinzer. “We’re looking at applications in extreme conditions on Earth and beyond. Anywhere cables can’t go, lasers might.”

As researchers refine the technology further, this cutting-edge form of wireless power transfer could become a cornerstone of the next generation of energy infrastructure—efficient, safe, and cable-free.