Smart windows save households money and CO2
By: Hannah van der Korput
Windows that let in solar heat on cold days and block it on hot days: that is the new discovery by the TNO Delft Netherlands research institute. The windows save money and CO2 emissions.
A thermochromic coating has been applied to the windows. This extra layer ensures that the optical properties change at a certain temperature. If it is warmer than 20 degrees Celsius, the sun's heat is kept out. Is it colder? Then the windows let the heat of the sun in.
Save CO2 and money
Buildings and houses are thus cooled and heated in a natural way. Air conditioners and fans need to be turned on less often. The heating can also be turned down a notch by using sunlight. Previous lab tests show that the use of this coating can lead to lower energy consumption compared to the current standard HR++ glass.
This saves between 500 to 400 kilos of CO2 emissions per household, TNO calculated. A modest number, considering that a household emits an average of 13,000 kilos of CO2 annually. The largest part, around 80 percent, comes from energy consumption for heating and electricity.
In addition to emissions, the windows also save money. An average household that uses air conditioning could save 500 euros per year, the research institute has calculated. The expectation is that an average household will recoup its investment in five to seven years.
Available from 2025
For the time being, TNO is still conducting research into large-scale production of the windows. The windows must be ready for the market by 2025 at the latest. Anyone who wants the coating in their windows must replace the windows. In the long term, the idea is that the coating can also be added to existing windows.
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66 w
Very good work here
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66 w
This is a good invention, it also gets rid of the need for curtains to an extent?
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64 w
@munene_mugambi It is heartwarming to see innovations that lead to the use what nature provides like solar.
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66 w
This is so great,innovation at its top-notch.