What’s next: Transparent solar panels

As we know it

The latest transparent solar panels help in converting more sunlight into electricity as they have a protective layer of transparent material on it, which converts the harmful ultraviolet radiations into a longer-wavelength visible light. This minimizes the exposure of the solar cells' to harmful UV radiation, thus extending their lifespan. This photovoltaic device is being used since long time in electronic machines like watches, calculators, satellites, etc.

Transparent solar panel

A transparent or flexible solar panel is very light. It is made of thin sheets of amorphous silicon which is accumulated on a layer of polymer substrate. These photovoltaic cells are connected together and sealed using a protective, transparent material which is scratch resistant and abrasion free. These panels are quiet flexible and can be rolled up for storage.

These solar panels are lighter and more flexible than the earlier versions of solar panels and is a breakthrough technology in the field of alternative energy generation. They can be used in various applications. They are regularly used to power portable gadgets like mobile phones, laptops, PDAs, and walkie-talkies. They are also in use to power field communication radios, camping equipments, GPS systems, etc.

Need for change

Transparent solar panels are sold in various sizes and shapes. Today these solar panels are being utilized by many manufacturing companies and businesses. With the rising popularity of solar panels in recent years, many new entrepreneurs are opting for this new renewable energy.

These transparent solar panels are cheaper than their former counter parts because here a smaller amount semiconductor material is required when compared to the earlier crystalline cells. They have a standard thickness of 150 to 200 micrometers.

This technology will unquestionably replace bulkier version of crystalline solar cells in many purposes.

What’s Next?

The transparent solar panels are the most recent advancement in the field of alternative energy. These transparent cells help in turning any window pane into a major solar power generator without hindering the passage of light through it. The absorbed energy is converted into electricity which can be utilized for any use. This makes a building into a huge solar power generating unit.

The channeling of sunlight through these transparent solar panels is not only an Eco-friendly option but is also profitable. An office building made with transparent solar window panels can generate sufficient electricity to meet all its requirements. The use of these on surface area of the windows makes generation of extra solar power easier and effective than the former versions.

Details about the new development

Transparent Solar Windows

Based basically on the mechanism of photosynthesis’ this dyed solar panel absorbs sunlight to generate electricity and transform the windows into energy providers. The panel used here is made of an electrolyte named Titania and Ruthenium dye, which is inserted in between the glass panes. The sunlight which strikes the dye activates the electron and is absorbed by Titania to generate power.

What difference will it make

The solar panels, made from organic molecules are similar to dyes and absorbs only the near-infrared spectrum and have the capacity to transform light into electricity with higher efficiency.

Problems

The major drawback in this DSSC design is the temperature stability problems.

2. Window panes with transparent solar panels

Window panes transparent solar panels

Whats new

Windows bring in light and air into interior spaces, yet they are the most common cause of thermal energy loss. And window panes made of transparent solar panels would effectively increase the power generating capabilities and reduce the loss of energy; making it a major alternate energy generator.

What difference will it make

They also produce electricity more efficiently; even during cloudy days. These solar windows are currently available in a rosy tint color, and blue, grey and green colored cells are being worked on.

Problems

The largest challenge in this technique is its longevity in commercial applications. The longevity of the cells still needs to come closer to the life span of the windows themselves.

3. Sphelar solar technology

Sphelar solar

Whats new

These solar cells come in a spherical shape. It is made from hardened silicon drops which is reduced to a size of 1.8 mm in diameter. The spherical shape improves the light absorption from every angle thus making it very efficient and flexible option for power generation. It's highly translucent and can be easily fixed into any glass window to make a transparent solar cell window.

What difference will it make

There is no concealed side and both sides generate electricity from the light source. Has high transparency from 20 to 80 percent. Available in varied shapes like pliable sheets to curved surfaces.

Problems

It is a bit expensive than the other solar cells.

4. Solar cells made from flexible plastic

Transparent solar panel

Whats new

These transparent solar cells are made from flexible plastic which can be used in making prototypes of building integrated photovoltaics. Here the solar cells are packed in between two glass panes. These trendy tinted and colorful panes technique allows you to redefine the aesthetic essence of your home.

What difference will it make

Installing these solar panels on the roof and windows is a great option. These flexible plastic solar panels are more adaptable to use in any application.

Problems

The life expectancy of the product (25yrs) is a little less for the silicon-based cells. It also has a low efficiency level of 6 percent.

5. solar window panes for cars

Solar panes for cars

Whats new

Solar window panes for cars are a Chinese innovation which generates electricity from transparent solar panel. This pane is slightly foggy. The fogginess of the window pane can be increased to improve the efficiency of power generation.

What difference will it make

Incorporating solar panels in an electric car by this technique is a great way to do away with the hideous solar panels attached to the cars roof or hood.

This solar glass pane can be integrated into electric cars to generate power while on the run.

Problems

Research and development is still underway for this product as the car window fusion process occurs at a temperature of 1500 – 1600 degrees Celsius. And solar energy glass panels cannot preserve its constitution at that high temperature.

Conclusion

This technology is sure to become one of the greatest inventions of mankind. This technology is not only Eco-friendly but is also an economical version of the former crystalline photovoltaic cell. The transparent and flexible aspect of these solar panels makes it a major development in the field of alternative energy. The researchers are working out on the drawback's of these product to improve the efficiency of thin film photovoltaic cell to match the effectiveness of the crystalline cell.

While it is not a faultless technology, these innovations do open the doors of future for us to use of renewable energy resources in larger scale and make this world a better place.