Researchers Develop Way to Make Windows Into Solar Panels

25 August 2014

 - Scientists at Michigan State University announced this week the creation of a “transparent luminescent solar concentrator” that could turn windows and even cellphone screens into solar-power generators.

This technology could mean that one day entire skyscrapers might be able to generate solar power without blocking out light or ruining tenants’ views.

The material works by absorbing light in the invisible spectrum (ultraviolet and near infrared) and then re-emitting it in the infrared. The infrared light is then channeled to the edge of the clear surface, where thin strips of photovoltaic cells generate the power.