Studies have shown EC windows can cut electricity use in some commercial buildings by up to 40 percent by changing tint when subjected to electric current1.
Project focuses on development of ITN's high-yield, roll-to-roll, vacuum-deposition process.
Erlanger, KY– MAG Industrial Automation Systems will share in a $4.9 million Department of Energy ARPA-E grant as part of a team led by Littleton, Colorado-based ITN Energy Systems (ITNES), the prime contractor for development of a new manufacturing process to dramatically reduce the cost for electrochromic (EC) windows.
The project will focus on development of ITN's high-yield, roll-to-roll, vacuum-deposition process using low-cost flexible plastic substrates, rather than conventional large-format glass.
"In addition to its lower cost based on high-rate production, roll-coated EC plastic film has advantages in lower shipping weight and volume, reducing transportation and handling costs," says Dr. J. Manjunathaiah, MAG Vice President of Energy Business Development.
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"MAG automation designs have already reduced manufacturing costs to record lows for photovoltaic thin-film solar panels, so the company brings a strong background in scaling up these types of processes. This team believes there is an excellent opportunity to bring similar economies of scale to EC windows with a disruptive new manufacturing approach."
Studies have shown EC windows can cut electricity use in some commercial buildings by up to 40 percent by changing tint when subjected to electric current1. These "smart windows" allow building owners to darken them to block solar radiation on hot days, or lighten them to allow more heat in on cool days.
Also participating on ITN's team are Southern California Edison, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) and the Colorado School of Mines.
For more information visit:
www.mag-ias.com
www.infinitepowersolutions.com
www.microsatsystems.com
www.ascentsolar.com
www.itnes.com