UbiQD Acquires Blue Dot Photonics

UbiQD, a developer and manufacturer of quantum dot technology, has acquired BlueDot Photonics. The deal includes perovskite-based quantum cutting technology and exclusive rights to BlueDot’s associated intellectual property, initially developed (and licensed from) the University of Washington.

Seattle-based BlueDot Photonics develops solutions to improve solar panel performance. Courtesy of U.S. Chamber of Commerce/Ian Wagreich.

BlueDot's doped perovskite materials convert high-energy photons into nearly twice as many lower-energy photons, according to the company, and the technology could increase silicon solar panel efficiency by up to 16%. The technology has the potential to reduce the cost of solar energy generation and push photovoltaic performance beyond the theoretical limits of traditional silicon-based cells.

For UbiQD, the acquisition of BlueDot signals a growing momentum in solar. UbiQD has been building a business unit focused specifically on developing down-conversion products for the industry. In 2023, the company expanded its partnership with First Solar to explore the potential to incorporate fluorescent quantum dot technology in advanced solar modules. The company also received an Advanced Energy Pilot Program award from the State of New Mexico Economic Development Department to bolster its advanced solar energy innovation and commercialization. In early 2024, UbiQD initiated a collaboration with Los Alamos National Lab to explore quantum-enhanced materials for clean energy applications.