Making buildings more environmentally friendly is a growing business sector, especially since many projects reduce costs as well. It is estimated that retrofitting projects to make buildings greener will triple in the next few years and by 2014 will be a $15.1 billion business. A potential popular component for urban buildings may be pyramid-covered windows.
The Center for Architecture Science and Ecology (CASE) has created an “integrated concentrating dynamic solar façade,” which would be put in place of regular windows. These units consist of tiny pyramids that are capable of concentrating the sun’s energy. Each pyramid consists of a solar cell which captures the energy. The shape of the pyramid allows for optimal solar concentration.
In addition, water is pumped through the design, which allows the units to stay cool and for additional heat collection. Such a system would be able to be integrated into hot water systems in the building. The pyramid design of each is only about a foot square and they rotate with the sun. When installed, the units make buildings appear to have so-called jewels on their exterior.
The design would somewhat obstruct views from the windows, however it would also keep light at a consistent level throughout the building. The creators of the units believe they can assist in heating, cooling and lighting buildings.
The head of CASE, Anna Dyson, stated: “The reason we’re interested in windows is because they have the largest surface areas, typically, in buildings- especially in tall, urban buildings. We have a lot of vertical surface area to work with to really generate a lot of power.”
The first test of the system will come from the installment in the new Center of Excellence in Environmental & Energy Systems in Syracuse, New York. They installed an 8 by 8 foot window with the system in place. The window is set to begin operation within days.