Developing Solar Power and Heat Generating Windows Wins Smart Initiative Award

The Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) has won a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) Initiative award at the 2016 smart solar awards.
 
CPI, Merck, and Polysolar created new materials such as solar glazing window panels that can both generate power as well as control building temperatures.
 
The project is funded by Innovate UK. Its primary objectives comprise the development of intelligent windows that generate solar power and offer improved thermal control. In partnership with materials supplier Merck and Polysolar, CPI is developing the BIPV devices necessary for enabling these intelligent windows.
 
Intelligent windows will facilitate the drive towards zero carbon buildings by reducing building energy costs without compromising freedom in structural design for architects.
 
An upgraded version of a semi-transparent grey-colored lisicon formulation from Merck is a key element to the BIPV movement. The group plan will substantially increase energy yield and better thermal insulation at a lower cost.