Researchers at Michigan State University created the “transparent luminescent solar concentrator”, a new type of solar concentrator for usage on clear surfaces. They developed a method for production of solar cells that developed a translucent layer over surfaces, unlike previous methods that left a colored tint over surfaces, making the method largely unappealing to consumers. The new method is ideal for windows, cell phones, and other electronic devices that require higher aesthetic quality. The [product is currently still in development to optimize its solar conversion efficiency to be comparable to other solar energy products on the market. Their solar harvesting system absorbs invisible ultra violet and infrared wavelengths, which is converted to energy by photovoltaic solar cells near the edge of the surface. The “transparent luminescent solar concentrator” is predicted to also be used for commercial or industrial applications, such as large, window-surfaced buildings, at a relatively inexpensive price.
The transparent luminescent solar concentrator has potential to lower humans’ carbon output without significant lifestyle changes. While similar methodology previously existed, this new design is a game-changer because of its flexibility and potential for mass production. Many businesses, corporations, and consumers are unwilling to convert to solar energy systems because they prefer to not sacrifice the “integrity’ of the building or phase away from traditional architectural styles by adding clunky or conspicuous solar panel structures. With this new design, large buildings covered in window such as office buildings and hotels that are major consumers of energy will be able to supply part or all of the energy required to maintain their buildings. If tech companies such as Samsung and Apple were to implement the T.L solar concentrator into their electronic devices, the devices could potentially be entirely self-sufficient, thus immensely decreasing fossil fuel usage by millions of people. The T.L. is an amazing breakthrough in green technology.
Oswald, T., & Hunt, R. (2014, August 19). Solar energy that doesn’t block the view:
MSU Today. MSU Today: Michigan State University Today.
Retrieved August 23, 2014, from
http://msutoday.msu.edu/news/2014/solar-energy-that-doesnt-block-the-view/
This is great news for the industry because so many people don’t use solar panels due to their aesthetic. This is I think one of the more important improvements to the technology that I have seen recently.