A scientist whose project was deemed so hopeless that he had to pursue it in his spare time has won the 2014 Nobel prize in physics for an invention that paved the way for widespread energy-efficient lighting.

 

Shuji Nakamura, 60, at the University of California, Santa Barbara, shares the coveted prize – and 8m Swedish kronor (£690,000) – with Isamu Akasaki and Hiroshi Amano of Japan for “the invention of efficient blue light-emitting diodes which has enabled bright and energy-saving white light sources.”

 

Speaking to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Nakamura said that receiving the prize was “amazing” and “unbelieveable”. The three scientists will receive their award at a ceremony in Stockholm in December.

 

The invention of the blue LED transformated lighting. The devices can be used with a phosphor or combined with red and green LEDs to generate white light for illuminating homes and offices, traffic signals and huge advertising screens. They are so efficient that if the UK switched over to LED lighting, the nation could save 10% of its electricity bill and do without or eight new power stations, said Sir Colin Humphrey, director of research at Cambridge University.

 

 

PHOTO: Shuji Nakamura with a blue laser, one application of his co-invention. His work was valued at $500m in 2001 – he was offered $200.

CREDIT: Randall Lamb/UCSB/EPA