The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed various organizations such as SunCrafter to come up with technological solutions to limit the spread of the virus. SunCrafter is now working with partners to build a roadmap to manufacturing a significant number of its creative solution, which develops hand sanitizers by using end-of-life photovoltaic (PV) modules. The technology can be used in field hospitals, refugee camps and urban slums in countries with poor energy supplies.

Somik Das, Power Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “In times like these, SunCrafter’s innovation is of immense significance. If commercial production starts right away, it will help several companies that are opening their facilities in countries such as Spain, Italy and the US. Its usage will be of primary importance in not just economic superpowers but also in developing countries and those that are facing a shortage of PPE.”

SunCrafter is not the only company helping to limit the spread of COVID-19. Smaller PV manufacturers such as Central Electronics are repurposing to incorporate the production of ventilators. Furthermore, giants such as TESLA and BYD are repurposing their pipeline schedules to incorporate the manufacturing of medical ventilators and other PPE. Ford has developed a social distancing wristband to ensure that social distancing measures are strictly followed at all times.

Das concludes: “COVID-19 is proving to be a major threat to the global economy and groundbreaking ideas such as these are of critical importance. The presence of small, medium and large industries in repurposing and innovating will help make a difference in curbing the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak.”