OPV Opens Up New Architectural Opportunities

Imagine a building with facades and roof structures that generate energy and light up in the dark – such a Smart Building becomes reality through the use of organic photovoltaics (OPV). The integration of OPV in the architecture of buildings can be experienced at the German Pavilion during the Expo 2015 in Milan, as the OE-A (Organic and Printed Electronics Association) visits Milan Expo 2015 in the course of its General Assembly.
 
The pioneering OPV technology is presented to a broad international audience at the intelligently designed German Pavilion, during the Expo 2015 in Milan. The use of flexible OPV is integrated in its architecture as solar modules are placed on the pavilion’s membrane roofs and solar trees for harvesting energy during the day, which is used for illuminating the pavilion at night.
 
The organic solar cells, developed and produced by OE-A members Belectric OPV, Merck, and Heraeus, make economical use of resources and space. This is just one example of a self-sufficient energy installation through the use of OPV. A manifold of new product opportunities arises, ranging from small charging devices integrated in bags or clothing and solar cells on car rooftops, to entire building facades.
 
“The Expo 2015 is a unique opportunity to globally share the numerous benefits and success factors of organic photovoltaics (OPV) and Smart Buildings. It is a great example of how organic and printed electronics provides sustainable solutions to current energy challenges,” said Dr. Stephan Kirchmeyer, chairman of the OE-A Board, Heraeus.
 
The Belgian Pavilion also makes use of OPV in its architecture. Organic photovoltaic modules are integrated in the glass facades by OE-A member Heliatek and serve both as building envelope material and power generator.
 
Organic and printed electronics can be applied to photovoltaics to completely redefine the way solar cells are fabricated and how and where solar power is used. OPV offers a number of advantages ranging from ultra-thin, lightweight, and robust features to semi-transparency, multi-color options and free form factors. This presents opportunities for revolutionary advances in the acceptance and deployment of solar energy. Due to its specific characteristics, OPV even performs when not directly facing the sun and only receiving indirect or diffused light indoors. There is almost no restriction on the size and shape of OPV devices, and every conceivable form can be envisioned.
 
End-users, manufacturers and technology providers give an overview of new developments and application possibilities of OPV during the OE-A General Assembly. The meeting of the international community is hosted by member SAES Getters and takes place from June 9-10 in Lainate, Milan.