The Plasmonic Solar Cell Of The Future could replace the Photovoltaic solar cells

The plasmonic effect refers to the ability of certain metals to transform solar energy to electrical energy. Plasmonic or plasmo-electric effect has been present for centuries, for example in church glass and windows that contained metal particles for absorption of light and solar heat. The scientists are developing modern solar cells that will use plasmonic effect to directly convert solar energy to electricity while significantly increasing their effectiveness. Some new innovations, such as ultra-thin, flexible and light weight solar cells will find their way for usage in different applications. 

The nanotechnology with gold nanospheres is one of the perspective technology in plasmonic field. Although it might look expensive to use gold in solar cells, the nanotechnology offers an alternative by creating ultra-thin films of gold with high effectiveness for capture of solar energy. 

Source:

http://cleantechnica.com/2014/11/02/brace-comes-plasmonic-solar-cell-future/