ClearVue Technologies confirms results from recent testing in Singapore that provides independent, third-party verification of ClearVue PV’s real-world performance benefits for tropical climates.
The testing was completed with the Singapore Building and Construction Authority (BCA) through its Skylab facility, which conducted comparative testing of ClearVue Technologies’ second generation photovoltaic insulated glazing units (Gen-2 PV IGU) system as well as testing of its Spandrel Solution, both announced 18 May 2023.
The BCA found that ClearVue’s high energy-output clear solar glass technology Gen-2 PV IGUs reduced cooling load by 22.8 per cent and overall energy savings by 7.5 per cent after accounting for energy generation.
It also improved thermal comfort for building occupants 96.1 per cent for of the time and reduced imperceptible glare by 75.2 per cent – considerably above control cell levels. When the Gen-2 IGUs are used in conjunction with the Spandrel Solution energy savings of 71 per cent can be achieved.
Over a four-week period in July-August 20231, BCA SkyLab directly compared the performance of a West-facing2 test cell fitted with ClearVue’s Gen-2 PV IGU system against a control cell deployed with Singapore’s BCA ‘Greenmark Platinum’ certified3 double glazed low-e windows.
A range of metrics were measured under real-world, southwest monsoon season weather conditions in Singapore to evaluate the energy savings and comfort benefits provided by the triple glazed Gen-2 PV IGU technology.
These results from the main independent regulatory authority in the region confirm the suitability and significant paybacks ClearVue PV’s can provide to building owners and developers across Southeast Asia and beyond.Like ClearVue’s first generation IGU product, the second generation integrates solar cells directly into windows to generate electricity while improving a building’s energy efficiency. The BCA test results also follow the announcement on 4 September that the Gen-2 PV IGU design can now be produced at mass-scale on unmodified glazing industry standard production lines.
ClearVue Chief Executive Officer Martin Deil said:
“The BCA SkyLab results validate ClearVue PV as an outstanding integrated product that delivers strong thermal and energy outcomes. The test data proves our technology’s ability to simultaneously cut costs and enhance occupant comfort in the tropics by reducing solar heat gain.
“We are thrilled the benefits of the Gen-2 PV IGU products have once again been confirmed. Excitingly, the technology is expected to deliver even better energy performance in more favourable climatic zones and we anticipate improved carbon outcomes in cities with higher grid emission factors, providing greater potential CO2 savings and accelerated carbon payback from ClearVue’s PV IGUs.
“BCA’s comprehensive testing program clearly shows the advantages our PV glazing technology provides – as both an energy generator and passive design solution. This is not only good for the environment but will help companies meet the increasing pressure on the building sector to reduce their carbon footprint to meet clean energy targets and current and incoming sustainability mandates.
“ClearVue’s building envelope solutions can meaningfully improve the sustainability and efficiency of new and existing buildings.”
