Solar windows: are they worth installing?

Solar energy has become a popular and sustainable option for many people who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save on their electricity bills through photovoltaic self-consumption. However, for those living in apartments, installing solar panels on the roof is not always a viable option. For this reason, alternatives such as solar windows have emerged, gaining popularity in countries like Germany, where they are already being used in urban buildings to generate electricity efficiently without compromising the aesthetics of the structures.

In this article, we explain what exactly solar window panels are, how they work, and what alternatives exist so you can make the most of solar energy, even if you live in an apartment.

What are solar window panels?

Solar window panels are an emerging technology designed to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through photovoltaic cells integrated into the window glass. This technology makes use of the sunlight that hits the windows to generate electricity, allowing the windows to serve a dual purpose: providing natural light and generating clean energy for the home.

Solar window panels are made from special materials that allow visible light to pass through while capturing other wavelengths of the solar spectrum that are not typically visible to the human eye. This technology can be integrated into different types of glass, from fully transparent windows to semi-transparent variants that offer greater energy efficiency.

Advantages and disadvantages of solar windows

Advantages

• Use of existing space: Solar windows utilize surfaces that already exist in the building, eliminating the need for additional structures. This makes them a less invasive and easier-to-install option compared to traditional solar panels.
• Aesthetics and insulation: Being transparent or semi-transparent, solar windows do not alter the building’s aesthetics. They also tend to improve thermal insulation, helping maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, which can reduce the need for heating or air conditioning.
• Clean energy generation: They produce electricity without emissions, helping reduce the building’s carbon footprint.

Disadvantages

• Lower efficiency: Solar window panels generally have lower efficiency compared to traditional solar panels. This means they generate less electricity per square meter, which may limit their ability to cover a home’s full energy needs.
• High cost: The installation of solar windows can be more expensive due to the complexity of the technology and its emerging status in the market.
• Installation limitations: Their effectiveness depends on factors such as window orientation and the amount of direct sunlight they receive. In buildings with north-facing windows or in cloudy climates, efficiency can be even lower.

Adoption in countries like Germany

In countries like Germany, solar window panels are gaining traction as a viable solution for energy generation in urban environments. Germany has been a pioneer in adopting renewable energy, and this technology is another example of its commitment to sustainability. In cities like Berlin and Munich, solar windows are being installed in residential and commercial buildings, maximizing the available light in a country with fewer hours of sunlight than southern Europe.

This early adoption in Germany demonstrates that even in less sunny climates, solar windows can be an efficient option. This is partly due to government incentives that promote investment in sustainable technologies and the growing interest in architectural solutions that integrate renewable energy generation.

Alternatives to solar window panels:

While solar windows are an innovative option, there are other solutions for those living in apartments who want to harness solar energy:

• Solar Panels on an Interior Terrace: If your apartment has a terrace or balcony with good sun exposure, you can install traditional solar panels on inclined mounts. This option is practical and cost-effective, allowing you to use unused spaces, especially in urban areas where roofs are not available for private installations.
• Solar Panels on a Shared Roof: Another alternative is to use the shared roof of your building. Installing shared solar panels can reduce costs by spreading the investment and maintenance among all residents, benefiting the community with cleaner and more affordable energy. However, this option requires agreements among property owners and possibly administrative permits.

The best option: Roof installation

Installing solar panels on windows is an option to consider if a roof installation is not feasible. However, if you have access to a roof, the best option for efficiency and performance is to install solar panels on the roof.

Roofs offer a large, shadow-free space, allowing maximum sunlight capture throughout the day. Roof-mounted solar panels typically have higher energy efficiency, resulting in greater electricity generation and a faster return on investment. Additionally, being located on a high and unobstructed surface, roof solar panels are less prone to efficiency loss due to shadows, dirt, or obstructions. For these reasons, whenever possible, roof installation is the most recommended option to maximize solar energy and ensure the highest return on investment.

At Sunhero, we do not install solar windows because we specialize in rooftop photovoltaic installations all across Spain, which are currently the most efficient on the market. If you are interested in exploring the benefits of solar energy, contact us for a free, personalized, and no-obligation quote.