Smart building materials company ClearVue Technologies (ASX:CPV) and LuxWall Inc. of Michigan, USA have signed a new Collaboration Agreement to develop and commercialise a breakthrough in window world’s first window technology.
The collaboration will combine ClearVue’s photovoltaic solar glazing and LuxWall’s advanced vacuum insulated glazing (VIG) products and technologies into one product focussed on assisting the construction sector to get to net zero energy consumption (the Zero Window).
ClearVue's technology helps generate electricity from clear glass, offering a significant 22.8% reduction in solar heat gain as recently demonstrated by independent testing conducted by Singapore’s peak building authority. LuxWall's technology involves the use of vacuum insulation to create highly energy efficient single and double pane glazing modules, cutting heating costs by up to 45%.
The partnership combines these technologies to produce a new double-glazed format photovoltaic vacuum insulated glazing unit (or ‘PV VIGU’). It is expected to thermally outperform all existing double-glazed low emissivity solutions while also generating power from the glass, thus creating the world’s most efficient glazing solution to assist with achieving net-zero construction goals. The final glazing product will boast unique properties such as optical transparency, lowest heat gain, and the highest energy generation currently possible for clear solar glass.
Zero Windows will see high demand from sustainability-conscious architects and developers looking for ways to reduce carbon in buildings, achieve top LEED certifications, and cut energy use in the built environment.
“This collaboration represents a pivotal moment in the fight against climate change for the construction sector – one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions globally,” ClearVue Global CEO, Martin Deil, said.
“We are excited to partner with LuxWall on this innovative product. Vacuum insulated windows provide the best thermal performance products and minimise energy use. ClearVue technology can enhance that thermal performance even further and generate electricity at the same time, providing clean energy on site and helping meet sustainability targets.
“By combining our respective technologies, we create a solution that revolutionises the way buildings are designed and constructed. The Zero Window will be a net-zero focused window, reducing operational carbon through both thermal insulation and power generation. The market for double-glazed vacuum insulated glass in North America is expected to grow fast in the next five years propelled by changes in legislation. Partnering with glazing industry innovators like LuxWall is a strategic way for ClearVue to enter the North American façade market.”
