ecofriend.com

Eco Tech: Konarka develops transparent solar cells for sun harvesting windows

konarka solar cells 1

Eco Factor: Transparent solar modules for building-integrated photovoltaic systems.

Massachusetts-based Konarka Technologies Inc. has announced that the company has developed transparent solar cells, which would make BIPV (Building-integrated photovoltaic) pleasing. The company has signed a contract with Arch Aluminum & Glass to use the cells in building materials including glass windows. Being transparent the cells won’t make you sacrifice the aesthetics of your home. For those of you who want your windows to reflect your mood, the PV modules can also be tinted in different colors.

konarka solar cells 2

The cells are made of flexible plastic material, which will be incorporated between two sheets of glass used to make windows. Apart from their use in windows, the company believes that the cells can be used in a wide range of applications including military tents, portable chargers and sensors.

konarka solar cells 3

The cells are destined to become popular among homeowners who don’t want to spoil the look of their roofs with rigid solar modules. However, the flexible modules won’t last as long as the rigid modules, which have a lifespan of over 25 years. Konarka also stated that the company has achieved 6% efficiency in the lab but that’s not yet available in its products. On the other hand, silicon solar cells can provide an efficiency of over 20%, which still makes it a better choice.

Via: CNet

Today's Top Articles:

Scroll to Top