Some innovative solar panels are designed to attract cats, as their saliva helps keep the panel's surface clean and functioning at peak performance. Researchers from the British Institute of Science and Social Sciences recently revealed a new type of solar module coated with a salmon scent, claiming it can boost efficiency by 5%.
In lab tests, scientists applied a fish-flavored coating on a small photovoltaic panel installed on a rooftop. Two cats named Lirpa and Lofo were drawn to the smell and spent several hours on the panel’s surface. The researchers then used wooden spoons to scare the cats away. Afterward, they found that the areas licked by the cats were about 25% cleaner than the untouched parts, directly improving the panel’s efficiency by 5%.
Felix Lickspittle, the lead researcher, praised the cats for their role in the experiment. He explained, “Cats’ wet, rough tongues effectively remove dirt and grime from the surface. Additionally, the enzymes left behind by their saliva make the panels shine more clearly, allowing them to capture more sunlight. Since there’s no food on the panels, the cats aren’t harmed.â€
The team noted that Lofo showed great potential during the initial squid aroma test.
The research is still in the experimental phase. “After salmon, we also tested tuna, mouse, and chicken scents,†Lickspittle added. “But we don’t want the panels to be too ‘meaty,’ as that could attract dogs. Dogs aren’t as careful as cats, and we don’t want any accidents.â€
The team is exploring other ways to make solar panels more appealing to cats. “We tried using baby sounds, but the cats just sat around without interacting with the panels,†said Lickspittle. “We also painted bird feathers on the surface, hoping to attract them. Lirpa approached cautiously, while Lofo just sat nearby, staring and occasionally swatting the panel. We might need a different cat altogether.â€
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