TROY, N.Y. — Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have announced the development of a new window system that stores solar energy. According to the research team, the Dynamic Shading Window System (DSWS) uses a newly developed solar technology to convert the sun’s light and diverted heat into storable energy that can be used to heat, cool, and light a commercial office building.
“Our system, which can be incorporated into existing commercial buildings as well as new ones, could become a significant part in the development of an overall energy plan to reduce dependence on the national power grid. This could save businesses — the biggest consumers of energy — untold utility costs and significantly reduce U.S. need for fossil fuels,” stated Anna Dyson, assistant professor of architecture who co-developed the system.