Glasses for solar energy conversion systems

Solar technologies are projected to increase tremendously over the next 10 years. Glasses are playing an important role as transparent materials of photovoltaic (PV) cells and concentrating solar power (CSP) systems. Glasses are materials of short energy payback time and environmental compatibility suitable for sustainable energy concepts. The paper reviews recent solar applications. Surface structuring and coating of glasses are shown to improve energy efficiency for solar conversion systems substantially. Encapsulated glass-to-glass PV modules and solar photocatalytic glass surfaces are identified as elements of a green architecture combining renewable power generating and destruction of air pollutants of urban environments. Emerging solar technologies for power generation, including transparent PV modules, solar chimney and thermoelectric systems may become significant areas of future solar glass applications.