Nanotechnologies for efficient solar energy conversion and storage

We describe nanotechnologies that improve the conversion efficiency of solar energy into electricity, and enhance the round-trip efficiency of energy storage systems. We describe nanostructures that enhance light concentration, light trapping, photon absorption, charge generation, carrier multiplication, hot electron extraction, charge transport, and current collection in photovoltaic systems, as well as nanomaterials that enhance the efficiency of electrochemical processes, boost gravimetric and volumetric energy densities, reduce the rate of self-discharge, increase the peak power rating, and extend the cycle life of secondary batteries.