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faq /

Glass is undisputedly one of the most important building products there is. Imagine a world without it. In the architectural sector, it can be used for a variety of purposes from creating large striking glass facades to elegant internal screen solutions.

One of its many architectural uses has gone through something of a transformation over the past few years, with new added value functionality being incorporated into its make up.

Traditionally glass louvres, used to control solar heat gain within buildings, have been tinted or etched to create the desired effect. More elaborate finishes such as ceramic frits – a type of paint that is baked onto the glass – are also available to create more adventurous appearances whilst reflecting the sun’s heat and helping to maintain a comfortable interior temperature.

glass louvres taking a much more active role within buildings

Now, however, glass louvres are taking on a much more active role within buildings – with light redirection and photovoltaic systems being integrated into the mix. Developed by Levolux, leaders in the design, manufacture and installation of solar shading solutions, they offer building owners and specifiers realistic solutions in terms of creating environmentally friendly buildings by reducing the need for air conditioning – one of the largest culprits of carbon dioxide emissions – whilst providing renewable energy sources as well as shading.

The light redirection system uses an ingenious film which is sandwiched between the two sheets of laminated glass. The system intelligently transmits redirects natural daylight to where it is most needed in a room into the space, creating even illumination throughout the building whilst also retaining clear outward view.

‘Free’ electricity

Photovoltaics incorporated into glass louvres are the latest development. Using light to generate ‘free’ electricity is of massive interest to organisations throughout the world. Organisations such as BP are driving the initiative and as such have insisted that at least 10% of their buildings’ energy consumption is created using photovoltaics.

Naturally fragile, photovoltaic cells are perfectly suited to being securely sandwiched between two sheets of glass louvres. Using natural light to generate electricity, they reflect solar heat gain, helping to maintain comfortable temperatures within buildings.

Still in their early development, photovoltaics are sure to be a long-term method of creating ‘free’ electricity. If they can be combined with other building functions, such as glass louvres, to create a solution that reduces heat gain within buildings whilst generate electricity, then it is surely a win, win situation for all concerned.