We have developed transparent solar technology that enables glass façades to generate their own electricity to offset general building energy usage and power onboard smart features within the façade itself. This truly transparent solar coating has been developed together with the glass industry to selectively convert ultraviolet and infrared light into electricity and simultaneously block transmission of unwanted solar heat, all while selectively transmitting visible light and retaining the look and performance of low-E glass. We have now produced and installed this technology into pilot façade installations in a variety of buildings that monitor and use the generated electricity. We have also developed prototype units where the energy is used to power smart features within the window or façade itself, including mechanization, sensors, and security features. Here we will review the state of transparent solar technology, glass unit and façade construction considerations, installation examples, and cases studies.
Miles Barr
Transparent Solar Facades for Building Energy Generation and Smart Features
Company: Ubiquitous Energy, Redwood City, USA
About the speaker:
Miles Barr is co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Ubiquitous Energy. Barr has worked at the forefront of organic electronics and solar technology for over a decade. For his innovations in the solar industry, Barr has been named an MIT Technology Review Innovator Under 35 and a Forbes 30 under 30 in Energy. Barr holds a PhD from MIT in Chemical Engineering and a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University.