Solar Windows the Future of Green Energy?

What Are Solar Windows?

Solar windows enable buildings to convert sunlight into free, renewable electricity while still allowing light to pass through like conventional windows. They function similarly to solar panels, using solar energy to generate electricity, but without the need for large panels on the roof or walls.

Solar windows are made by integrating photovoltaic glazing, which contains solar cells that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. This electricity can be used to power appliances within the building. Solar windows are a type of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), meaning they are part of the building structure itself, offering a seamless way to generate renewable energy without traditional solar panels.

How Do Solar Windows Work?

Solar glass windows are equipped with solar cells that capture sunlight and convert it into usable electricity. This energy can be used during daylight hours, and any surplus can be sent to the National Grid or stored in a solar battery for later use.

Leading Solar Glass Manufacturers

1. Onyx Solar
   Onyx Solar is a global leader in solar glass production. Their products offer the same thermal and sound insulation as regular windows but with the added benefit of generating electricity. Onyx Solar also provides customization options for the shape, color, size, thickness, and transparency of the glass to suit individual properties.

2. Polysolar UK
   Polysolar specializes in developing solar windows that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality. Their windows use a transparent photovoltaic film that allows natural light to pass through while generating electricity efficiently.

Efficiency of Solar Windows

Polysolar's grey-tinted solar windows have efficiency levels between 12% and 15%, which is competitive with many traditional solar panels on the market today.

Benefits of Solar Windows

• Renewable Electricity: Solar windows offer a practical solution for generating renewable energy, particularly for properties where solar panels may not be feasible.
• Lower Energy Bills: By harnessing solar power, you can reduce your reliance on grid electricity and lower your energy costs.
• Reduced Indoor Temperatures: Solar windows help block excessive heat from entering the home, keeping indoor temperatures cooler in summer.
• UV Protection: These windows block ultraviolet rays, preventing damage and fading to furniture and interior surfaces.
• Increased Privacy: Tinted solar windows make it harder to see into the property from outside while maintaining clear visibility from within.
• Reduced Glare: Solar windows cut down on glare from sunlight, making activities like watching TV more comfortable.
• Lower Installation Costs: Compared to installing rooftop solar panels, replacing traditional windows with solar glass may be quicker and more cost-effective.
• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Homeowners generating renewable electricity can earn payments through the SEG, which compensates them for exporting excess energy to the grid.

Cost of Solar Windows

As an emerging technology, the cost of solar windows is still relatively high, with estimates ranging from £175 to £250 per square meter of solar glass. By comparison, installing a standard 4kW solar panel system costs between £5,000 and £6,000. While prices remain unclear, solar windows are expected to be more expensive than traditional solar panels due to their complexity and the limited availability of the technology.

Other Solar Innovations: Solar Panel Blinds

In addition to solar windows, innovations like solar panel blinds are being developed. These blinds resemble traditional roller blinds but also capture solar energy. The blinds follow the sun's direction throughout the day to optimize energy generation while serving the dual purpose of blocking light.