Scientists at the University of Kassel have developed a ground-breaking window element that uses quantum dots to generate solar power. The prototype of this innovative window was recently installed and tested in a flat owned by Vonovia in Kassel-Waldau.
The technology in detail
UNIfipp
A special film integrated into the window contains tiny quantum dots made of semiconductor material. These dots are only a few nanometres in size and capture the sun's energy. The light is then re-emitted with a red shift and partially trapped in the glass. The trapped sunlight is converted into electrical energy by photovoltaic cells attached to the edge of the window. This energy can then be utilised directly.
See also: ABS Conference on solar facades to happen in Switzerland
Technoform
A major advantage of this technology is the complete transparency of the glass. The film can be applied to any window without detracting from the appearance of the facade. This allows energy to be harvested in places that were previously inaccessible. In future, for example, tenants could charge their mobile phones at a USB port that is supplied with solar power directly from the window.
Initial tests and results
The performance of the system developed as part of the CoSoWin project is currently being evaluated in a Vonovia flat in Kassel. Martin Schottek, a consultant for climate-neutral buildings at Vonovia, hopes that this technology will be an effective addition to the expansion of photovoltaic systems. It is initially a prototype. "We are pleased that the window we have developed is now installed and can be tested and further developed under real-world conditions," explains Matthias Koch, research associate at the Institute of Materials Technology, Department of Plastics Technology at the University of Kassel.
Also interesting: What do IG manufacturers want from warm edge systems?
However, it will probably be some time before the solar windows are ready for the market and can be found in DIY stores. Over the next few months, Koch and his team want to analyse how much electricity the prototype actually generates. The technology will then be further developed.
Research funding and project participants
The project "CoSoWin - Windows with integrated solar cells based on Luminescent Solar Concentrator (LSC) technology for energy supply" was funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection as part of the German government's energy research programme. In addition to Vonovia, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP, Technoform Glass Insulation Holding, Walter Fenster und Türen and xCave Technology are also involved.
