Sustainability problem

we need to transition away from fossil fuels to avoid a climate change catastrophe. Solar is a promising component of this transition, nonetheless it has traditionally been conceptualized as a solution for to horizontal surfaces and roofs, both of which are limited in area within the urban landscape (where most people live) – Not anymore.

Solution

 

Turn windows into a solar energy generating unit.

• SolarWindow is a US company based in Maryland. The technology functions similarly to a PV cell, only on a transparent window.
• The technology has lower efficiency rate, nonetheless scale is where it really shines – the rooftop area of an average skyscraper is very small compared to the approximately 6 acres of windows it has.
• Payback period is less than a year.

Stakholders

While big buildings in dense urban areas will see the highest returns, stakeholders include:

• Home owners
• Municipal buildings
• Real-estate companies
• Utility companies

Implementation:

Step 1 – the company needs to scale its production while continuing to develop the product (increasing efficiency and transparency).

Step 2 – partner with a property owners to conduct pilot studies and familiarize utility companies to with the technology.

Step 3 – work towards Federal recognition of the technology as equivalent to rooftop solar (in terms of subsidies, depreciation and tax credit).

Link to company website – https://solarwindow.com