Students from Harvard have harnessed energy in a microbial fuel cell (MFC) for a class project by using bacteria found in the soil. A microbial-fueled battery can power a small LED lamp for up to a year, with the battery costing from $10 to $15.
The MFC batteries were tested in villages in Namibia. Bacteria releases energy when it metabolizes dead leaves, compost, and other organic waste. An electrical conductor like copper wire is added, creating a chemical reaction resulting in a small charge of electricity.
The Harvard group founded Lebone Solutions which aims to bring MFC technology to Africa to help expand off-grid lighting technologies.
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