Photovoltaic Glaze
Photovoltaic glaze experiments were first made in 1958 and are used for satellites and have not been widely introduced. Photovoltaic Glaze was first introduced in 1975 and is known until now. In the field of Civil Engineering, these objects are used in buildings known as Building integrated photovoltaic glazing (BIPV). BIPV is a system which helps buildings generate their own electricity by transforming the whole building into a solar panel. In 2016, London had its first transparent solar bus stop. Polysolar, a company specializing in PV systems, installed transparent photovoltaic glass at the smart bus stop at Canary Wharf. The photovoltaic glazing is able to generate electricity even in low and ambient light. Capable of producing 2,000 kWh per year, it could power an average home in London. The energy helped power smart signage on the state.
How it works:
1. The main element is the photovoltaic module
2. Many individual solar cells are interconnected to form a module
3. These modules are strung together in a series to form a photovoltaic array
4. The sunlight shining on solar panels induces the photovoltaic effect
5. The DC power can be used, stored in a battery system
6. Fed into an inverter that transforms the DC power into electricity
Benefits:
1. Improves the aesthetic appearance of the building
2. Saves electricity cost
3. Easy maintenance
4. Environmentally friendly
Rather than purchasing glass windows beside photovoltaic cells, it is sufficient to buy photovoltaic glaze, which will not only generate electricity but also serve as windows. While it is true that some innovative products such as solar tiles are still too expensive for widespread application, photovoltaic glass is cheaper than others. With building regulations increasingly stringent with regards to sustainability, it is only a matter of time before photovoltaic glass becomes the norm.
We are ready for change!
Written by Nicholas A.W. & Jason Lee
Source: https://www.globalcad.co.uk/photovoltaic-glaze-the-future-of-sustainable-buildings/