solar glass

New developments in solar technology are shining a light on the versatility of eco-functional design. Solar glass panels are currently being tested on commercial structures and will be available for residential use the second quarter of 2006.

IN 1839 A SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGH LED TO MANKIND'S ABILITY TO CAPTURE THE SUN'S RAYS AND CONVERT THEM TO CLEAN, USABLE ENERGY. BUT IT WASN'T FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY THAT THE FIRST SOLAR CELL WAS CREATED.

To date, an estimated 15,000 American homes are now using solar power for everyday activities. But unlike the rather bulky, silicon solar panels, a more streamlined concept known as Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) makes it possible for existing elements in a home to generate solar electricity while retaining their complete functionality. One of the newest and most discreet forms of BIP\/, solar glass paneling, is revolutionizing the modern view of solar-powered products.

The name given to the process of converting sunlight into energy is photovoltaics (PV). Nature has been doing it since the beginning of time in the commonly known process of photosynthesis. But instead of leaves, PV uses solar panels to catch the sun's energy in the form of protons. The trapped photons then react in a positive and negative energy field inside the panel, causing electrons to excite and exit the panel through connecting wires. The exit path of electrons through the wires is known as electricity.

Now apply this technology to glass: A pane of glass that possesses photovoltaic properties is able to transform the sunlight that strikes its surface into direct, usable energy. It is in this manner that the windows become a sort of semiconductor, supplying energy to a storehouse, which provides energy to various parts of the home. The glass is also able to act as a generator, storing energy for future use.

XsunX, a California based company, is the patented developer of this innovative technology. According to XsunX's, the company thought it was important to utilize" unused portions of a building's structure." The company projects half the efficiency of conventional solar cells but at one quarter of the cost.

Incorporating this technology into the home will provide several ecological and economical benefits. Solar glass helps conserve raw materials such as coal and oil, which are used to produce electrical energy in commercial power plants. The film will also save homeowners money by improving heat insulation and protecting against harmful UV rays. Additionally, the film is almost completely unnoticeable when used in comparison to traditional glass.

Although still in the research and development phase and not yet on the mass market, the film's projected availability is the second quarter of 2006. Once available, the technology will be applied to new or existing homes. Installation is relatively simple but should be completed by a trained manufacturer. Architects, designers, building professionals or homeowners can contact a manufacturer to install the film onto the surface of the house. Because it can be placed on variant surfaces, as much as 75 percent of the house can be turned into a solar conductor.

As a professional and/or homeowner, keep in mind, however, that the level of solar cells used in the glazing determines the opacity of the window. If high levels of sunlight are preferred, consider a solar glass containing a lower level of solar cells. And though the technology does work well in residential applications, it is currently a more advantageous option for commercial buildings, which typically include a larger glass surface. Nevertheless, as the look of homes evolves, BIPV might just make an ideal option.

A short lesson on the cost and specifics of solar films and glazing. The current cost of silicon solar panels is about $42 to $46 per square foot. Glazing and films are projected to reach a cost of $7 to $10 per square foot.

. Current solar panels average an installation cost of $13 per square foot, which is very similar to the estimated cost of films and glazing.

. Current solar modules require particular building design modifications, while solar films and glazing take advantage of previously existing surfaces.