A bioreactor is a specialized type of algae pond that is used to generate electricity. As algae grows, it photosynthesizes to produce chlorophyll, which helps it produce food from sunlight. The photosynthesis process releases electrons into the water, which creates a weak electrical charge that can be collected for use. This is what is known as a bio photovoltaic system, as opposed to solar photovoltaic systems, because bio systems rely on living things to produce the energy. These systems are also known as “bioreactors.” They’re a source of renewable energy that is based entirely on algae ponds.
Bioreactors can be created as either open or closed systems. Right now, most bioreactors are closed systems, which means that the ponds require covers plus specialized equipment to harvest the energy, but researchers are also working on open bioreactors that don’t require covers to function properly. Right now, there is some debate as to which is better. Open ponds require more land than closed bioreactors, and they’re more easily contaminated than closed bioreactor systems, but they’re also much cheaper to build. Another point that researchers are still working on are the types of algae used in these systems. With genetic modification, algae is being developed that is much more efficient at generating power through photosynthesis.
