The startup company ClearVue from Australia has completed two years of research on its innovative product - a window that is able to "capture" the entire spectrum of light. Importantly, the high transparency of the glass has been maintained, and the photovoltaic panels do not dominate the rest of the glass.
This groundbreaking window underwent a two-year analysis at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia. It was installed in the greenhouse structure, where, in addition to producing energy, it could fulfill the standard role of a window. The manufacturer claims that the results confirm the profitability of this technology.
Thanks to the use of these innovative windows, the greenhouse was able to produce 19 kWh of electricity per day, regardless of weather conditions. On rainy days, higher efficiency was often achieved than with traditional solar panels because these windows operated at different angles and in different weather conditions.
Monthly energy production from 12 windows placed on the northern wall of the greenhouse, source: ClearVue research
According to data provided in published studies, energy production from the monitored north wall of the greenhouse in 2021-2023 generally remained above 30 kWh per month, and the highest efficiency was achieved in September 2021 - above 35 kWh.
A clever technical solution
ClearVue specializes in providing photovoltaic windows that transmit up to 70% of the visible light spectrum. This is possible thanks to the use of highly transparent glass, which is clearly visible in the photo. The key element of this technology is the process of segregation of light waves taking place in the glass itself. In order for daylight to enter the room or greenhouse, the glass must pass the entire spectrum of visible light. The remaining waves, including UV radiation, are directed to the edges of the window, where the photovoltaic module converts them into electricity.
Each of the windows installed in the greenhouse had dimensions of 1.2x1.1 meters. The analysis published in the MDPI Technologies journal, which summarizes two years of research, shows that the maximum power of 30-33 Wp/m2 was achieved. The manufacturer claims that after recent improvements, the windows can achieve efficiency of up to 5%. This is the highest result achieved by photovoltaic windows with a completely transparent glass pane.
This is the second generation of BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics) windows. This technology allows for cost-effective production on an industrial scale because the company has adapted its products to factory standards.
Many uses
ClearVue sees many potential applications for its product. First, photovoltaic windows can help reduce electricity bills, not only by producing electricity, but also by increasing thermal insulation. Secondly, the use of this technology in greenhouses, especially industrial ones, will make them energy independent. The energy produced could power automation systems in such greenhouses. In addition, solar windows can complement existing energy infrastructure. Finally, providing electricity in hard-to-reach places is now even easier thanks to this technology.
Sources:
ClearVue
Globenergia.pl