It is possible to use plants for generating energy without first having to harvest them. This is the exiting conclusion after Wageningen UR plant scientists and environmental technologists connected reed grass to a microbial fuel cell. This fascinating discovery opens the door to numerous new applications.

“It is indeed very green energy and in principle far more efficient than energy from biomass,” says Jan Snel, photosynthesis expert at Plant Research International and Wageningen UR Greenhouse Horticulture, and a team member involved with this research project from the onset. “It is more efficient because you stay much closer to the source. We use relatively simple organic acids and sugars that are produced by the plants with the aid of sunlight and which partly are naturally secreted through their roots. Those acids and sugars are broken down by bacteria and we harvest the electrons released in the process.

Reed more: http://www.glastuinbouw.wur.nl/UK/expertise/energy/innovations/plantenergy/