Imagine if every window was capable of becoming a solar panel and how much of the world’s energy could be provided by them.
Well, Ensol, a Norwegian solar power company, has taken this concept and created a film that can do just that. The patented thin solar cell film technology has been designed to be sprayed onto windows and surfaces, converting them into energy sources.
The Technology Behind the Innovation
Unlike traditional silicon-based solar cells, the film is composed of metal nanoparticles embedded in a transparent composite matrix and operates on a different principle. This innovative approach allows the film to maintain transparency while still capturing solar energy. Ensol is now working with the University of Leicester’s Department of Physics and Astronomy to refine the product and prepare it for market.
‘One of the key advantages is that it is a transparent thin film that can be coated onto window glass so that windows in buildings can also become power generators,’ said Chris Binns, Professor of Nanotechnology at Leicester. This means that not only can new buildings be designed with this technology in mind, but existing structures can also be retrofitted, significantly expanding the potential impact of this technology.
Potential Impact and Future Prospects
Ensol hopes the nanotech technology will be 20% efficient and ready for commercial use by 2016. If successful, this could revolutionize the way we think about energy generation and consumption. Imagine skyscrapers with every window generating power, reducing the need for traditional energy sources and lowering carbon footprints. Residential homes could also benefit, with homeowners potentially reducing their energy bills and contributing to a greener planet.
The implications of this technology extend beyond just energy savings. For instance, in remote or underdeveloped areas where access to electricity is limited, this technology could provide a much-needed solution. By integrating solar-generating windows into buildings, communities could gain access to a reliable and sustainable energy source without the need for extensive infrastructure development.
Moreover, the aesthetic appeal of transparent solar films cannot be overstated. Traditional solar panels often face resistance due to their bulky and unattractive appearance. However, a transparent film that can be applied to windows seamlessly integrates into the design of a building, making it an attractive option for architects and builders.
(The image above shows Ensol’s nanotech film being applied inside a deposition chamber.)
As we move towards a future where renewable energy sources are increasingly important, innovations like Ensol’s spray-on solar film represent a significant step forward. By harnessing the power of the sun in new and creative ways, we can work towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient world.
Via Gizmag
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