Abstract
Renewable energy is the buzzword in the world today, from the drive to reduce electricity
costs to combating climate change by reducing harmful Green House Gas (GHG) emissions.
Innovative technologies are shaping the future. One such technology is the transparent
hybrid solar façade (window), developed by TropiGlas Technologies [1]. This transparent
hybrid solar façade not only harvests solar energy using the Photovoltaic (PV) effect, but
also shields against harmful solar radiation and improves thermal efficiencies by limiting
selected electromagnetic wavelengths that heat buildings and homes.
This study objectively quantifies the merits of using a transparent hybrid solar façade for
solar harvesting. Best practices and evaluation criteria for a transparent hybrid solar façades
are quantified, through use of experimental and recorded field data. The potential is to use a
transparent hybrid solar façade for energy harvesting where circumstances require energy
from non-grid sources. The potential to overcome environmental constraints such as building
floor ratio, zero carbon buildings, and green standards can be achieved utilising this
innovative concept.
This dissertation considers and further investigates power generation, utilising this novel
approach to hybrid transparent solar façades, in Southern Africa. Providing an evaluation
framework for technologies that provide energy generation included in the building
envelope. A spectral irradiation model specific to Southern Africa is also presented and
discussed. Investigations performed during a two-year period at a commercial pilot site and
isolated control tests helped to evaluate the feasibility of such a product against the impacts
of location, design, geographical and meteorological conditions relevant to Southern Africa.
Results obtained from the sample panel provided, varied when compared to theoretical
simulations and laboratory experiments. It was found that when the panel was placed
vertically as to match the pilot site, that as expected the north facing panel produced the
highest energy output. However, a horizontal and “optimal” angle placement achieved much
better results than the vertically installed panel. Overall this meant that a lower than expected
annual output was recorded.
M.Ing. (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)