New Delhi: In places where laying wires is difficult, a new technology is being explored that could change how devices get their power. Jammu and Kashmir-based startup Prime Movr claims it has developed a system that can turn laser beams into usable electricity. This means power can be sent through the air and then stored in batteries or used directly to run devices.
The idea of sending energy without wires is being explored in different parts of the world. In the United States, DARPA is looking into long-range laser power systems for defence use. Another company, Star Catcher Industries, is working on building an energy grid in space. In Japan, firms such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and NTT are also testing long-distance energy transmission systems on land.
Focus on practical use
Prime Movr is taking a more grounded approach. Instead of aiming for large-scale projects, it is working on smaller uses where the need is immediate. The company says its system can help in situations where installing wires is difficult or not possible.
Parvez Rishi, the firm’s co-founder, said there is still plenty of room to explore in this space. “This technology has strong potential in areas such as remote sensors and outdoor cameras, where wired charging is not practical. We are only at the beginning of what can be done,” he said.
The founders, who work between India and the United States, are also building another venture called INFRGY LLC. Along with the University of Kashmir’s Institute of Technology, they are developing wireless energy systems using radio frequency (RF). They say laser-based systems offer certain benefits, including higher energy density and better control over where the power is directed.
Where this can be used
These features make laser-based systems useful for powering devices placed in remote or difficult-to-reach areas. This includes outdoor monitoring systems, IoT devices and autonomous equipment.
“We are excited to work on laser-based wireless power. The ability to send focused energy over a distance can open up many new possibilities,” Rishi said.
At the core of Prime Movr’s system is a module that captures laser light and converts it into electricity. This energy can then run devices without the need for cables. The company is also working on improving the efficiency of this system through a patent-pending technology.
The startup is clear that this is not meant to replace existing power systems. It is built to support devices that are difficult to maintain. Outdoor security cameras are one example, as they usually depend on wiring or solar panels. A laser-based system could help keep them powered without frequent checks.
Environmental sensors in forests, glaciers, deserts or offshore areas run into power issues. In such locations, laser transmission could provide charging without the need to replace batteries or install long cables.
In agriculture and industry, devices such as soil sensors, irrigation monitors and tracking systems are spread across large areas. Wireless laser charging could help keep these systems running without regular human effort.
There are also possibilities for machines that move. Autonomous equipment and drones could get quick charging by passing through specific laser zones instead of stopping for long charging sessions.
The company is also looking at how this technology can work with renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and wave power. Energy from these sources could be sent wirelessly to where it is needed or stored for later use.
