Infrared plastic solar cells have three main advantages over conventional solar cells: 1) They can harness infrared rays and generate electricity even on cloudy days, whereas conventional solar cells only use 35% of the sun's energy; 2) They are more compact and flexible than bulky solar panels; 3) Initial tests show they may be 30% more efficient. The plastic solar cells consist of cadmium selenide nanorods dispersed in a polymer that acts as a conductor, sandwiched between electrodes. When light hits the nanorods, electrons are released to generate current and flow to the electrodes. This overcomes disadvantages of conventional solar cells.