highly efficient smart windows which store solar energy

Important results from the project

Solartes aimed to develop a new window technology that maximizes daylight, enhances indoor comfort, and improves the energy efficiency of a building, utilising a unique smart material which harvests solar energy at daytime and releases heat after sunset. During this project we developed a test rig which allows potential customers to assess the performance of our technology in an application relevant setting. Test results and the close dialogue with potential customers revealed that the fabrication of commercially compelling prototypes requires further development work.

Expected long term effects

During this project we build the capacity to finetune our smart material according to specific customer requirements. Further, we developed tools that make it easier to evaluate and communicate the benefit of our material for window applications. A close dialogue with potential customers gave us detailed insights in the production process of windows and trends in the window market. The analysis of these new insights and challenges resulted in the conclusion that the product-market fit for the Solartes technology in the window sector is less compelling than anticipated.

Approach and implementation

The project comprised four work packages. In a first step, we optimized our processes and made a palette of 5 materials which are optimized towards specific customer needs. At the same time, we develop a test rig for the evaluation of our dynamic window insulation. By extending our network and engaging in a close dialogue with potential customers, we gained detailed insights into the production processes of windows and market trends. This allowed us to make strategic decision for the future.