Scientists have discovered a way to bend the rules of thermal radiation—getting certain materials to emit more energy than they absorb. This seemingly physics-defying trick could lead to ultra-efficient solar cells and other energy-harvesting tech, squeezing more power out of every ray of sunlight.

Editor’s Note: If this pans out, it could be a game-changer for clean energy. Right now, solar panels hit hard limits based on how much light they can absorb and convert. But if materials can cheat thermodynamics a little, we might unlock far more efficient ways to harness the sun’s energy—good news for both the planet and your future electricity bill.