A photonic apparatus and system employ a plurality of nanowires distributed in a low-index optical waveguide. The plurality of nanowires collectively one or more of produces, enhances, modulates and detects an optical field. The low-index optical waveguide confines the optical field in a vicinity of the plurality of nanowires. The photonic system includes a circuit to one or more of electrically bias the plurality of nanowires and collect electrons produced in the plurality of nanowires.