High performance semiconductor nanocrystals active throughout the visible spectrum and into the near-infrared have been combined with conductive polymers to create ultra high performance solar cells that exceed the capabilities of current technology. Because the nanocrystals harvest a greater portion of the energy spectrum, these plastic solar cells have significantly improved efficiencies. Quantum dots for solar roofing tiles that are based on metal nanoparticles are expected to be commercialized within the next several years.