The day when gadgets such as mobile phones and iPods are powered using solar energy has moved a step closer with the launch by IT hardware firm Logitech of an iPad keyboard that is powered solely using solar cells.

The company has teamed up with innovative UK-based solar technology developer G24i to launch the peripheral device for use with the popular iPad 3 and iPad 2.

Boasting a recommended retail price of $129.99, the folio device will be available from next week in the US and Europe.

Bracken Darrell, Logitech President, said the company was excited at a development that “signals the future of small electronics”.

Speaking to BusinessGreen, Bob Hertzberg, chairman of G24i, said the photoelectric cells integrated onto the portable keyboard generate energy from indoor light to “trickle charge” the device’s battery so that it can power the keyboard and Bluetooth connection without the need for recharging.

“We have crossed the Rubicon and are in the market with a device,” he said, adding that the companies were now investigating how the cells could work with other peripherals such as mouses or speakers. “We have delivered cells for about 50,000 devices and will deliver another 50,000. We have a $1m contract for the first quarter and will then go from there.”

Hertzberg revealed G24i, which earlier this year announced that its next generation cells have a conversion efficiency rate of over 26 per cent, is also in talks with a range of other technology firms about integrating its cells with their devices.

“Devices are getting more efficient, batteries are getting better, and our technology is getting more efficient,” he explained. “It is the perfect storm for shifting lots of low energy devices over to energy harvesting.”

Devices such as eBook readers, smoke alarms, commercial display units, mobile phones, and ultimately laptops and tablets, could all make use of the technology, Hertberg said, reducing the need for them to recharge or replace batteries.

He added that the company is also working with a high-profile hotel chain to deliver automated blinds powered using photoelectric cells that allow the blinds to shut when the room is unoccupied, reducing air conditioning requirements and saving between $3m and $4m a year for the company.