Study from UPM develops BIPV with tracking and glare-free lighting

Researchers at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, a public science and technology university in Spain, have developed a semi-transparent BIPV module for building use. According to the team, the module integrates asymmetric Fresnel lenses and planar micro-tracking to concentrate sunlight at 10X onto 2.3 mm-wide cell strips. It has been designed to generate electricity from direct irradiance while allowing diffuse light to improve indoor lighting. The researchers said that a switchable tracking mode redirects sunlight indoors, reducing glare and removing the need for blinds. As per ray-tracing simulations, the system achieved 76% peak optical efficiency and maintained over 60% beyond 55° incidence. Universidad Politécnica de Madrid confirmed the module is suited for skylights, façades, and external shading systems.