WINNER
Development of a photovoltaic system of architectural integration
The project aims at developing an innovative building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system based on smart windows, which could represent a powerful tool for achieving the increasing demand for zero energy buildings. By introducing suitable nanoparticles on façade surfaces (in particular, windows) receiving direct sunlight it is possible to build luminescent solar concentrators, which, on one hand, downshift the solar spectrum towards the range where the solar cells have an optimal response, and, on the other hand, are able to redirect part of the incident light to the windowpane perimeter, therefore reducing the amount of radiation on the surface and contributing to the smart climatization of the building.
Optimal processes for the integration of these materials on the window pane surfaces will be developed. The system will be designed for optimal climatization of buildings combined with electricity self-generation. The project could thus have a large impact towards meeting the international goals on sustainability and low carbon economy specifically for urban areas.
Main goals
1.Selection / synthesis of suitable nanoparticles for light trapping;
2. Optimization of coating / integration on window panes;
3. Design of smart window system with integrated photovoltaics [PV];
4. Prototype fabrication;
5. Product testing and validation, including performance and durability compliant with relevant standards;
6. Lifecycle, energy balance and cost analysis.
Project number: ELAC2014/ESE-0146
Project duration: January 2016 to December 2018
Eligible cost: 562 703.50 € (funded by the European Commission via the Seventh Framework Programme for research, technological development and demonstration under grant agreement No 609484 with the support of FCT – Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, in the framework of the 1st ERANet-LAC cooperation program (Euro-Latin-American Cooperation Program GA No 609484))
Financial support from FCT: 99 703.00€
Project type: ERANET LAC
Intervention region: Europe, Chile, Dominican Republic
Results
- Different luminophores (quantum dots - CISeS/ZnS and lanthanide ions – Eu3+, Nd3+/Yb3+) were used to realize semitransparent photovoltaic (PV) windows to convert the energy-passive facades of urban buildings into effective energy and, at the same time, promoting building’s visual and thermal comfort;
- Spectrally selective scattering luminophores were combined with silica based nanomaterials (doped hollow silica nanospheres) to achieve highly visible-transmissive (T ≈ 90% at 400-700 nm and NIR) energy harvesting solar devices with enhanced thermal insulation properties (a temperature decrease of 3-5 ºC was achieved with Ln3+/HSNS/PVA coatings in “glass façades” lab-scale prototypes);
- Several prototypes and demonstrators were built and validated in real environment (@ UNEV facilities, Dominican Republic) demonstrating the potential of the smart window to generate electricity in buildings combining aesthetics and functionality.