Graphene-based solar cells and supercapacitors integrated into photosupercapacitors represent a pioneering advancement. These devices leverage the exceptional properties of graphene, such as high conductivity and large surface area, to enhance both solar energy conversion and energy storage. The integration of these technologies into photosupercapacitors creates a multifunctional device capable of harnessing solar energy and storing it efficiently. This innovative approach holds promise for sustainable and versatile energy solutions, marking a significant step towards developing efficient and compact energy storage systems. This integration addresses the intermittent nature of solar power generation by providing a continuous and reliable power supply through energy storage. Supercapacitors are one such energy device with a high-power density and excellent specific capacitance which is integrated will a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) comprising a single system of photosupercapacitor. A novel electrode material of NiO/CuO/Co3O4/rGO was synthesized which serves as the Pt-free counter electrode of DSSC and working or storage electrode of supercapacitor later was used as the intermediate electrode and storage electrode of a photosupercapacitor. The integrated photosupercapacitor device had a photovoltage of 0.81 V with arealspecific capacitance, energy and power density of 190.12 mF cm− 2, 17.325 μW h cm− 2 and 0.162 mW cm− 2, respectively. The device self-discharged in 385 s with an overall conversion efficiency of 2.17%, resulting in a self-charged energy device.
Energy storage is one of the leading problems being faced globally, due to the population explosion in recent times. The conventional energy sources that are available are on the verge of extinction, hence researchers are keen on developing a storage system that will face the upcoming energy needs. Supercapacitors, also known as ultracapacitors or electrochemical capacitors, are advanced energy storage devices characterised by high power density and rapid charge–discharge cycles. Unlike traditional batteries, supercapacitors store energy through electrostatic separation, offering quick energy release and prolonged operational life. They hold exceptional performance in various applications, from portable electronics to electric vehicles, where their ability to deliver bursts of energy efficiently complements or replaces conventional energy storage solutions. Ongoing research focuses on enhancing energy density and overall efficiency, positioning supercapacitors as pivotal components in the evolving landscape of energy storage technologies. A novel electrode material of NiO/CuO/Co3O4/rGO was synthesized which when used as a supercapacitor, the highest value of CS is 873.14 F/g which is achieved for a current density of 1 A/g under with an energy density of 190 Wh/kg and the highest power density of 2.5 kW/kg along with 87.3% retention after 5000 GCD cycles under 1 M KOH.