Transparent solar panels could replace windows in the future

(Reprodução / CASACOR)

Transparent solar panels have the potential to transform cities into major energy suppliers rather than major energy consumers, and could usher in a new era of clean energy revolution. And as the world strives for a low-carbon future to curb the effects of climate change, solar energy must unquestionably be one of our strongest allies. But how viable are transparent solar technologies? Could we really generate electricity from windows in offices, homes, car sunroofs or even smartphones?

What is transparent solar energy?

Transparent solar is a cutting-edge technology that captures and uses light energy through windows or any glass surface, regardless of the angle. It has the potential to be a game-changer in terms of expanding the scope of solar energy.

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In terms of engineering, researchers have created several means of transparent solar technology. In general, though, most of them function more like a transparent solar concentrator , meaning they are made to absorb specific wavelengths of UV and infrared light that are not visible to the naked eye and transform them into energy capable of powering electronics.

And by 2020, scientists in the United States and Europe had achieved 100% transparency for solar glass, bringing us one step closer to the goal of a sustainable future that is not dependent on the fossil fuel industry's grid.

What are the benefits of transparent solar energy?

Transparent solar panels are incredibly important because in modern society, glass is practically everywhere. From your phone screen to skyscrapers, there are an estimated 5 to 7 billion square meters of glass surfaces in the United States. United.

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With this in mind, it should also be noted that conventional solar panels require a large installation area as well as a significant initial cost . Due to these constraints, it is difficult to implement them in metropolitan locations. Transparent solar panels, on the other hand, could be implemented in these areas, paving the way for net-zero energy buildings and helping cities achieve climate goals .

The future of high-tech windows

Transparent solar technologies are already popping up around the world: for example, the Copenhagen International School project uses 12,000 colored but clear solar panels across the building, producing 200 MWh of energy annually—apparently more than half the energy that the building consumes . However, there are some obstacles in the way. Before the technology can be scaled up, scientists need to increase its efficiency , as there is an efficiency/transparency tradeoff. The more transparent the panel, the less efficient it is, which is why transparent panels should not exceed or replace the standard solar panels we have become accustomed to. Either way, technology is a great alternative that can help humanity reach a truly sustainable and greener future faster. Source: Interesting Engineering