Electricity-Generating Windows and Doors: An Innovation That Could Change the Future of Cities

Electricity-Generating Windows and Doors

Electricity-Generating Windows and Doors: An Innovation That Could Change the Future of Cities

Recent scientific research has revealed a promising technology that could redefine the form of solar panels, transforming them from traditional functional elements into an aesthetic part of home and building design. Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have successfully developed flexible, semi-transparent solar cells whose color and transparency can be controlled using 3D printing.

Unlike traditional solar panels, which often come in limited colors such as blue, dark gray, or black, this new technology aims to solve a long-standing problem with visible solar installations, especially in cities, where conventional panels often clash with the architectural style of buildings, according to a report published on the "digitaltrends" website.

The new technology relies on perovskite solar cells, known for their high capacity to absorb light and convert it into energy. However, instead of using flat layers as in traditional panels, the researchers printed the perovskite into microscopic vertical columns, resembling a small forest of energy-absorbing microstructures.

By controlling the height, spacing, and density of these columns, scientists can adjust the amount of light passing through the cells, thus controlling their transparency. The microscopic structure also allows for the reflection and absorption of specific wavelengths of light, giving the cells visible colors that can be customized.

The advantage isn't limited to aesthetics. This non-flat structure makes the cells flexible and bendable without cracking, opening up possibilities for use on windows, glass facades, curved walls, and even unconventional surfaces, all while continuing to generate electricity.

From Windows to Cityscapes

Researchers believe these cells can be easily integrated into residential buildings, offices, and luxury hotels, where glass is a fundamental architectural element. Their appearance can even be modified to match the building's design or a specific seasonal theme.

This technology opens the door to future possibilities, such as printing solar cells on car windows to generate power for charging small devices, or replacing bulky rooftop panels with windows that quietly generate energy without impacting the building's overall aesthetic.

Promising Performance, But Challenges Ahead

Tests have shown that the flexible solar material can achieve an energy conversion efficiency of up to 9.2%, while maintaining an average visible transparency of approximately 35%. The cells also demonstrated stable performance and structure over extended operating periods, even after repeated bending.

Despite these encouraging results, the efficiency remains lower than that of conventional solar panels, posing a challenge to widespread commercial adoption. 

The research team is currently working to improve the material's durability and lifespan, paving the way for its transition from laboratory to real-world applications. If these efforts are successful, we may soon see cities generating energy from their windows and facades, where sustainability and aesthetics blend seamlessly into a new architectural landscape.