Binghamton University is on the dawning edge of new energy.

It received 4-million dollars in federal funding advance solar cells.

Action News Reporter Julianne Sweeney shows us how BU's alternatives could soon power our lives.

This thin, flexible material could someday be used as solar energy.

"You can even integrate within your jacket for example that could power your cell phones, or PDA's, even your laptop." says Seshu Desu of Binghamton University.

The Center for Autonomous Solar Power or CASP at Binghamton University is researching and developing this state-of-the-art technology.

4-million dollars in federal funding is powering the project.

Senator Charles Schumer and Congressman Maurice Hinchey worked together to secure the money.

"This is really dynamic, and I'm really excited about it...and I'm working very hard on it." says Hinchey.

A traditional solar panel is bulky and rigid

CASP will make cells that are pliable and easily transportable.

The goal is to make solar energy less expensive and more efficient.

CASP wants its product produced right here at home.

"This is a win, win, win and best of all it creates jobs here in the Southern Tier." says Schumer.

The new solar cells could be on the market within 5-years.

Senator Schumer and Congressman Hinchey secured the federal funding through the recently passed Defense Appropriation Bill.