CSIR Technology Portal
CSIR Technology Portal

 Technology Profile

Title:

Dynamic Power Window

Value Proposition:

The Dynamic Power Window (DPW) represents an innovative Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) technology, delivering a unified solution that simultaneously addresses energy generation, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort, which were fragmented as separate technologies. Current BIPV systems are largely limited to rooftops due to their opaque nature, while dynamic windows lack energy generation capability. At its core, DPW solves a critical gap in the market: the absence of a multifunctional glazing solution that can both generate electricity and dynamically manage light transmission. DPW overcomes these limitations through a novel combination of planar light concentrator (PLC) optics and optical coupling fluids. From an economic standpoint, DPW offers a compelling value proposition by reducing both capital and operational costs. The system minimizes the required photovoltaic material through optical concentration (~5×), lowering module costs while maintaining performance. Simultaneously, it reduces building energy consumption by controlling daylight and heat ingress, leading to shorter payback periods compared to standalone PV or smart glass solutions. From a sustainability perspective, DPW accelerates the transition toward net-zero and energy-positive buildings. By decentralizing energy generation at the building envelope, it also reduces transmission losses and reliance on centralized power systems.

Summary Application:

The primary applications of DPW include commercial buildings, high-rise façades, residential complexes, skylights, and institutional infrastructure, where both energy efficiency and occupant comfort are critical. It is particularly valuable in urban environments where rooftop solar capacity is limited, enabling vertical surfaces to contribute to decentralized energy production. Additionally, DPW supports green building certifications by enhancing daylighting, reducing cooling loads, and improving overall energy performance. Beyond buildings, the technology has potential applications in automotive glazing, greenhouses, and smart infrastructure, where dynamic light control and energy harvesting are beneficial. Overall, DPW offers a scalable and multifunctional solution that aligns with global trends toward net-zero buildings and sustainable urban development.

Advantages:
  • Dual functionality (energy generation + efficiency): Simultaneously generates solar power and reduces building energy consumption through daylight and heat control
  • Wide transparency control (10% to 85% visible transmission): Enables dynamic daylighting, glare reduction, and privacy on demand
  • Reduced PV material cost: Uses planar light concentrator minimizing expensive photovoltaic area
  • Faster ROI: Combines energy savings and generation, leading to shorter payback compared to standalone systems
  • Scalable and manufacturable: Compatible with industrial processes like injection molding and standard PV integration
  • Aesthetic and design flexibility: Maintains architectural appearance while integrating energy functionality into façades
  • Decentralized energy generation: Converts building envelopes into energy-producing surfaces, reducing transmission losses
  • Improved occupant comfort: Controls solar heat gain and glare while maintaining indoor visual comfort
  • Strong commercialization potential: Patent-backed technology with industrial scalability and market relevance
Tech. Readiness Level:
CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology
CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology[CSIR-NIIST]
:  director[at]niist[dot]res[dot]in
:91-471- 2515226
:https://www.niist.res.in
Industrial Applications: Building Materials [Building Materials, Construction Technologies, Furniture etc.] Construction Machinery& Equipments [Building Materials, Construction Technologies, Furniture etc.] Conversion [Energy] Energy Storage [Energy] New Techniques [Building Materials, Construction Technologies, Furniture etc.] Production [Energy] Systems [Energy]
Patent(s): IN483372
Patent Application(s): IN202311075871
Photograph(s)