Self Powered Smart Glass For Windows

An electrochromic (EC) glass that can dynamically change tint or opacity through applied electricity, called a “smart glass”, is one of the key components of the future smart buildings that will help society to fulfill their goals of energy efficiency, sustainability, and climate change adaptation. A smart glass that actuates the transmission of visible and near-infrared light can reduce building energy consumption by up to 40% while enhancing occupant wellness. However, smart windows require external power for operation, complicating installation and limiting their utility to niche new construction. Andluca Technologies, a spin-out from Princeton University, has developed a transparent, thin-film solar technology that converts ultraviolet (UV) light into useful energy at the point of use. Andluca’s UV organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells can be applied for powering EC glass. The result is wireless EC glass that can be easily installed like a traditional window. Beyond EC glass, Andluca’s UV technology provides continuous renewable power to sensors in the window frame that monitor the facade environment to improve human wellness and building security and performance.