Aesthetically pleasing as they may be; it looks like blinds and shades have new competition- this time from the window glass itself. Enter Smart Energy Glass, a new innovation from Dutch Peer+ that turns windows into solar energy collectors with an added plus-a customizable appearance.
Not only are Smart Energy Glass windows available in several colors, but they can switch between three modes: dark, bright and privacy, which scatters the light passing through. Even better, the glass serves to collect solar energy, which can then be used directly or fed back to the grid.
But it also occurred to me that this could also be an opportunity for window covering maunfacturers. How cool would it be if the energy stored in the glass could be used to power motorized blinds, shades or draperies. Somfy and BTX please take note!
Users can control the darkness mode of the windows at will, depending on light conditions and energy concerns. Privacy mode generates the most energy, while bright mode is the least productive. Corporate logos can even be incorporated into the glass, Peer+ says.
Peer+ is currently working on its first pilots in the Netherlands, and is seeking further projects for testing.
See the video below
Smart Energy Glass from Peerplus on Vimeo.
