By Segun Adeyanju

A team of engineers has unveiled a flexible solar fabric capable of generating electricity directly from clothing, allowing users to power small devices while on the move.

The breakthrough material, made by coating ultra-thin photovoltaic layers onto flexible fibers, can be woven into everyday garments such as jackets, sleeves, and straps.

Unlike traditional solar panels, the fabric bends, stretches, and remains breathable-feeling like regular cloth rather than electronic gear.

The fabric channels current through conductive threads to a small power module hidden in the seams.

The module stabilizes the flow of energy and delivers power via a USB-C or snap connector, enabling real-time charging of phones, earbuds, and other low-power devices.

According to the developers, a small panel the size of a book can produce up to 3 watts under direct sunlight enough to trickle-charge gadgets throughout the day.

The prototypes have also been tested for durability, surviving over 50 wash cycles and exposure to sweat and rain.

“This is power you can wear,” said the project lead. “Energy belongs where people are, not where plugs are.”

The innovation marks a significant step toward wearable renewable energy, transforming ordinary clothing into a subtle, sustainable power source.