Researchers in Finland are advancing a new class of wireless power technologies designed to move electricity without physical cables. Work led by teams at the University of Helsinki and the University of Oulu is exploring multiple approaches, including ultrasonic “acoustic wires,” laser-based power delivery, and radio-frequency energy harvesting.
Why This Matters
Traditional power systems rely on wires, plugs, and fixed infrastructure. Finland’s experiments point toward a future where electricity could be delivered:
- Contactlessly (no plugs needed)
- More flexibly (easier deployment in hard-to-wire spaces)
- More safely in hazardous sites (reduced risk from direct electrical connections)
1) “Acoustic Wire” Technology
One of the most eye-catching methods uses high-intensity ultrasonic sound waves to create invisible pathways in air that can guide electrical sparks along a controlled route.
Key idea
- Ultrasonic waves can shape conditions in the air, forming a steered channel that helps direct an electrical discharge.
Current status
- Experimental phase
- Aimed at future applications where electrical connections work without plugs or traditional wiring
Potential uses
- Contactless electrical connectors
- Smart interfaces that operate without physical ports
- New kinds of reconfigurable power routing in specialized environments
2) Power-by-Light Using Lasers
Alongside sound-guided power, Finnish innovation is also pushing laser-based electricity transmission, sometimes described as “power-by-light.” In this setup, high-powered lasers send energy to remote receivers that convert the light back into usable electrical power.
Why lasers are attractive
- Can deliver power to hard-to-reach locations
- Supports galvanic isolation, meaning the power link can be made without a direct electrical connection
Where it could help most
- Nuclear facilities
- High-voltage stations
- Other hazardous or high-risk environments where isolation is critical
3) Radio-Frequency Harvesting (“Wi-Fi for Power”)
A third path focuses on collecting energy from ambient radio-frequency signals. The goal is to turn surrounding RF waves into small, usable amounts of electricity—especially for tiny devices.
Primary promise
- Powering low-energy IoT sensors without frequent battery replacement
Big impact scenario
- Reducing reliance on millions of disposable batteries used across large sensor networks
What This Could Change
If these approaches mature, the result could be a more cable-free infrastructure for industry and technology, with benefits such as:
- Faster deployment of sensors and smart systems
- Lower maintenance in battery-heavy IoT environments
- Improved safety through isolated power delivery in dangerous locations
- More adaptable layouts for factories, utilities, and remote installations
What Comes Next
Although these systems are still being refined, Finland’s multi-track push suggests wireless electricity may evolve from laboratory demonstrations into practical tools—first in specialized industrial settings, then potentially in broader everyday applications.
Source: University of Helsink. Wireless Electricity Transmission: Breakthroughs in Acoustic and Laser-Based Power. University of Helsinki News
