Stratospheric Superbacteria Offer New Source of Power

Bacteria normally found 30 kilometres above Earth have been identified as highly efficient generators of electricity, and could help supply electricity to severely underdeveloped parts of the world.

Bacillus stratosphericus — a microbe commonly found in high concentrations in the stratosphere — is a key component of a new “super” biofilm that has been engineered by a team of scientists from Newcastle University.

By selecting the best species of bacteria, a kind of microbial “pick and mix,” they were able to create an artificial biofilm, doubling the electrical output of a microbial fuel cell from 105 Watts per cubic metre to 200 Watts per cubic metre. While still relatively low, this would be enough power to run an electric light and could provide a much needed power source in parts of the world without electricity.