Solar technologies are projected to increase tremendously over the next 10 years. Glasses are playing an important role as transparent materials
of photovoltaic (PV) cells and concentrating solar power (CSP) systems. Glasses are materials of short energy payback time and environmental
compatibility suitable for sustainable energy concepts. The paper reviews recent solar applications. Surface structuring and coating of glasses are
shown to improve energy efficiency for solar conversion systems substantially. Encapsulated glass-to-glass PV modules and solar photocatalytic
glass surfaces are identified as elements of a green architecture combining renewable power generating and destruction of air pollutants of urban
environments. Emerging solar technologies for power generation, including transparent PV modules, solar chimney and thermoelectric systems
may become significant areas of future solar glass applications.
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