See or Feel The Power of The Sun?

11/15/2023

Fully transparent photovoltaic solar panels were first developed by researchers at Michigan State University. They used organic salt molecules for the transparent appearance as well as the ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) light. With this newly found invention and the implication of solar panels, scientists in Switzerland started to shift their focus toward implementing this clear panel. Unlike the original black solar panels, which could only absorb fifteen to twenty percent, this new glass solar panel can absorb only up to eight percent of sunlight and transform the light into energy. Thus, while inventing a transparent panel is better and more sustainable for the ecosystem, what is the point of the invention if the energy conversions are already slow? We need a better, more efficient solution.

Monocrystalline or polycrystalline energy cells are essential for the light-to-energy conversion required in each solar panel. However, these energy cells come at a high cost, ranging from $6,000 to $9,000 for every 6kW power system. Furthermore, mono/polycrystalline cells are highly temperature-sensitive, experiencing a wide range from freezing winters to scorching summers. Ultimately, these temperature variations can decrease their energy conversion efficiency and accelerate the need for replacement. With one replacement after another, these panels significantly harm our ecosystem and the environment. This harm extends beyond their use phase, impacting factors such as their manufacturing process, the chemicals used during engineering, and interference with land use.

According to Solar Energy World, the standard size of a solar panel is 65 inches by 39 inches. With these dimensions, one after another, 65 inches becomes infinitely bigger. Since animals and people only have so much space to live, these solar panels further push our environmental boundaries. All for what? Fifteen to twenty percent energy conversion? Environmentalists may think it is not worth it, but engineers may think it is; however, Environmental Engineers would disagree. Environmental Engineering, the study that bridges environmental science and mechanical engineering together, aims not only for transparent solar panels but rather efficient transparent solar panels. Vladimir Bulovic, an engineering professor at MIT, believes that “You can have zebra stripes or elephant footprints or whatever you want underneath because the cells that sit on top are invisible." He is right, but taking into account the lower efficiency rate of this "improved" version really did not change the rules of the game. Yes, it is cheaper. Yes, it is better for the environment, but it counteracts the amount of space the panels take up and the low-efficiency rate

https://energy.mit.edu/news/transparent-solar-cells/

Transparent solar panels are not the end but rather a milestone for researchers to guide their research around this model. Dr. Bulovic understands that "technology is not going to save the planet by providing all the emissions-free energy it needs [but rather] deems it an attractive part of the solution. It can be added to things that are already being deployed." This is just the beginning and now acts as a backbone for others to add to and enhance. Hopefully, in the near future, we can contribute to increasing the efficiency rate to at least thirty-five percent. If you would like to read about these panels more or just for fun, please click the image below!