“DSSCs (dye-sensitized solar cells) technology allows furniture and household objects to be transformed into renewable energy sources, offering an innovative solution that will help promote the European Union’s (EU) energy transition towards the use of greener energy ”, says the Portuguese finalist.
Based in Porto, the challenge of Rita Gomes’ start-up is to develop a range of economical and ecological furniture, capable of using and storing solar energy. “Our mission is to create innovative solutions in which we can apply, on a global scale, the advantages of this solar technology integrated into furniture, thus contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future”, reinforces the architect.
At the heart of the design it develops is a process of incorporating dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) into pieces of furniture and household items. “This fusion between design and technology allows us to create aesthetically beautiful products that not only enrich living spaces, but effectively play an active role in reducing the carbon footprint”, explains Rita Gomes.
Seenergy uses dye-sensitized solar cells that mimic the photosynthesis process in plants, converting light into electricity. Unlike common solar panels, solar cells can be used indoors as they do not require direct sunlight. Once collected, the energy is stored in a battery that is integrated into the furniture pieces, and can then be used to charge devices or turn on lights via a USB port.
“We are developing a range of products, including a bedside table that is powered by solar energy, where the entire top is made up of DSSCs technology”, adds Rita.
The young entrepreneur hopes that her example and contribution in this area will serve as an inspiration to female audiences so that, more and more, women take on leadership roles in the energy sector.
“I faced some challenges, mainly related to stereotypes about the role and capabilities that women have in the area of technology”, she admits. “These challenges strengthened my commitment to excellence and reinforced my conviction that innovation and leadership are genderless.”
In November 2023, Seenergy won a first prize of 10 thousand euros, in the New European Bauhaus category, in the final of the EIT Jumpstarter of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, an initiative that distinguishes major technological innovations that can help Europe face some of its most pressing challenges.
The Portuguese architect will invest the value of this award in her ongoing project and, through partnerships that she intends to establish with the University of Porto and with sector leaders, Seenergy intends to accelerate the development of her concept and products and launch it to the next year.
“More than an award, this distinction reflects validation that our efforts are aligned with the European Union’s objectives in the areas of sustainability and inclusion, and with which we can have a significant impact in this field”, says the finalist.
Rita Gomes is one of three finalists for the 2024 European Sustainable Energy Awards, in the “Women in Energy” category. The award recognizes women who lead innovative projects and activities that, when replicated, can help promote the transition to the use of more sustainable energy sources in Europe. Special attention is paid to the female contribution to this initiative, in order to boost integration