Home > Resources > Articles > CEC Grant Helps Ubiquitous Energy Manufacture Windows That Generate Energy

CEC Grant Helps Ubiquitous Energy Manufacture Windows That Generate Energy

November 1, 2019 | 213 views

A company supported by the California Energy Commission (CEC) has launched a prototype production line for its new power producing windows technology.

In October, Ubiquitous Energy began producing its ClearView Power technology at a new production facility located at its Redwood City offices. The company celebrated its new production line during an Oct. 15 event.

The microscopically thin coating is transparent and selectively absorbs ultraviolet and infrared light to both reduce heat gain in buildings and generate electricity for onsite use, a first for the industry. The company has been able to obtain an aesthetically-pleasing neutral color, something that other companies are struggling to do but is highly desirable by building designers. The coating is applied directly to glass windows and can transmit up to 90 percent of visible light.

The project was aided by a $3 million grant from the CEC’s Bringing Rapid Innovation Development to Green Energy (BRIDGE) program, which allows start-up companies that have previously received CEC or federal funding to continue working on their technology without waiting for a new public funding opportunity or pausing to raise private funding, a process that can sometimes take years.

“The California Energy Commission is investing in clean energy entrepreneurs by helping them move their innovations to market,” said CEC Vice Chair Janea A. Scott. “Each unique concept has the potential to move California closer to its goal of a carbon-free future.”

With support from the BRIDGE grant, Ubiquitous Energy is scaling up its prototype to meet standard window testing size requirements and will demonstrate that its coating application could be cost-effectively integrated into the traditional glass manufacturing process.

The company is working with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to conduct testing and ensure the bigger prototypes meet commercially viable levels of energy efficiency, electrical generation, aesthetics, and durability. By the conclusion of the project, Ubiquitous Energy hopes to have the ClearView Power prototype windows installed in various pilot demonstration projects, including one at its own office.

The BRIDGE program is funded through CEC’s Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) program, which helps drive clean energy innovation and entrepreneurship.

Ubiquitous Energy was one of the eight start-up companies that participated in the CEC’s Breakthrough Technology Showcase, which was held Oct. 25 at the CEC. The showcase featured EPIC-funded projects focused on low-carbon energy solutions for buildings.

Spotlight

Solar Energy World

With thousands of customers, Solar Energy World is the fastest growing, independently owned solar system design and installation company in the Maryland and Washington DC area. As a premium solar panel dealer and installer, Solar Energy World provides a complete solar power solution to commercial and residential properties.

OTHER ARTICLES
SOLAR+STORAGE

A vision for renewable energy

Article | May 27, 2021

Right now, renewable energy makes up a very small part of the entire energy sector of Bangladesh. But as we move into the future, and concerns about the environment become too great to ignore, exploring cleaner and greener sources of energy becomes the need of the hour. Our economy is booming, and our population is growing, so it goes without saying that our energy requirements are immense. There is plenty of scientific evidence that burning fossil fuels indiscriminately is not sustainable in the long term, so we do need to up our game in looking at alternatives.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE

2020: The Year of Convergence in Corporate Renewables

Article | April 29, 2021

The rapid growth of corporate renewable procurement has been nothing short of a buyer-driven revolution in the United States’ electric sector. Almost 20 gigawatts (GWs) of corporate power purchasing agreements (PPAs) were completed in 2019 across the globe, up from 13 GWs of corporate PPAs in 2018 and triple the numbers from 2017.1,2 And the majority of this growth has come from the United States. Fortunately for those of us committed to renewable energy, we expect this trend to continue. But as should be expected in such a dynamic, buyer-driven sector, we are starting to see some noticeable shifts in the marketplace as it evolves and grows. I wanted to highlight some of the trends Constellation is watching for this year.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE, STRATEGY AND BEST PRACTICES

2020 Trends That Will Make Waves In The Energy Industry

Article | September 17, 2022

In the renewable world, energy is generated by weather and the amount of energy that can be produced depends on the current conditions. Energy storage can ensure a power supply is maintained when weather conditions are not optimal for generating energy. While energy storage products have already been introduced to all levels of the market there are several technology hurdles to overcome before energy storage will reach maximum potential. We believe there will be great advancements in 2020 on:

Read More

Solar Power, Great For The Environment? Or Is It The Last Thing We Need?

Article | February 10, 2020

Solar power is an undeniably a green, renewable form of electricity generation - but many organisations with questionable motives (even here in New Zealand) are trying to persuade the public (and Government – hi lobbyists!) that solar power isn’t that environmentally friendly, and that it's even harmful. At the expense of bullish corporate profits, solar power is often thrown under the bus. This article lists the facts - putting an end to the negative spin on solar so often found in the media. When solar panels produce power, they do not; create any air pollution, use zero water, create carbon emissions, noise pollution, and they won’t disturb surrounding ecosystems. Solar power is a renewable energy source, the sun’s rays are infinite, fill your boots.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE

Installation of a Solar System in 2021

Article | May 27, 2021

Right now, renewable energy makes up a very small part of the entire energy sector of Bangladesh. But as we move into the future, and concerns about the environment become too great to ignore, exploring cleaner and greener sources of energy becomes the need of the hour. Our economy is booming, and our population is growing, so it goes without saying that our energy requirements are immense. There is plenty of scientific evidence that burning fossil fuels indiscriminately is not sustainable in the long term, so we do need to up our game in looking at alternatives.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE

More Solar Ready To Help Power Pumping For SA Water

Article | April 29, 2021

The rapid growth of corporate renewable procurement has been nothing short of a buyer-driven revolution in the United States’ electric sector. Almost 20 gigawatts (GWs) of corporate power purchasing agreements (PPAs) were completed in 2019 across the globe, up from 13 GWs of corporate PPAs in 2018 and triple the numbers from 2017.1,2 And the majority of this growth has come from the United States. Fortunately for those of us committed to renewable energy, we expect this trend to continue. But as should be expected in such a dynamic, buyer-driven sector, we are starting to see some noticeable shifts in the marketplace as it evolves and grows. I wanted to highlight some of the trends Constellation is watching for this year.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE, STRATEGY AND BEST PRACTICES

Slashing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Business Perspective!

Article | September 17, 2022

In the renewable world, energy is generated by weather and the amount of energy that can be produced depends on the current conditions. Energy storage can ensure a power supply is maintained when weather conditions are not optimal for generating energy. While energy storage products have already been introduced to all levels of the market there are several technology hurdles to overcome before energy storage will reach maximum potential. We believe there will be great advancements in 2020 on:

Read More

Solar Power, Great For The Environment? Or Is It The Last Thing We Need?

Article | February 10, 2020

Solar power is an undeniably a green, renewable form of electricity generation - but many organisations with questionable motives (even here in New Zealand) are trying to persuade the public (and Government – hi lobbyists!) that solar power isn’t that environmentally friendly, and that it's even harmful. At the expense of bullish corporate profits, solar power is often thrown under the bus. This article lists the facts - putting an end to the negative spin on solar so often found in the media. When solar panels produce power, they do not; create any air pollution, use zero water, create carbon emissions, noise pollution, and they won’t disturb surrounding ecosystems. Solar power is a renewable energy source, the sun’s rays are infinite, fill your boots.

Read More
MORE ARTICLES

Spotlight

Solar Energy World

With thousands of customers, Solar Energy World is the fastest growing, independently owned solar system design and installation company in the Maryland and Washington DC area. As a premium solar panel dealer and installer, Solar Energy World provides a complete solar power solution to commercial and residential properties.

Related News

SOLAR+STORAGE

Silfab Solar Expands Product Line with ELITE Solar Panels

Silfab Solar | February 28, 2023

Silfab Solar Inc., a leading photovoltaic (PV) modules manufacturer in North America, has recently announced that the next generation of Silfab ELITE – a more powerful and visually pleasing line of American-made solar panels – is now being shipped to installers throughout the country. The company utilized its patented X-pattern technology to create an efficient and robust solar panel that merges integrated cell design with an innovative conductive backsheet. Silfab ELITE generates 410 watts of power with an efficiency rating of 21.4%, with one of the best warranties in the industry. Additionally, the solar panels are exclusively manufactured in Washington at one of the most technologically advanced facilities in the United States. Silfab has manufacturing facilities across North America to serve the expanding US solar market. The company uses industry-leading automation for ultra-high efficiency module production, enables partnerships for next-gen technology applications, and provides 30-year performance warranties for its entire line of solar panels. Consistently ranked as a top provider of solar panels in terms of durability and efficiency, Silfab is the result of stringent testing and quality assurance measures coupled with superior customer service. Paolo Maccario, Chief Executive Officer at Silfab, shared, "Silfab has designed, engineered, and developed the most powerful and absolutely stunning solar panel exclusively manufactured in the United States. With its all-black sleek look, ELITE provides the aesthetics homeowners have been looking for," He added, "ELITE is another example of Silfab's 40-year record of technological and engineering prowess that give American homeowners and businesses the energy independence they deserve. ELITE puts America solar products back on top." (Source – PR Newswire) About Silfab Solar Inc. Silfab Solar, headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, is a leading North American manufacturer of premium quality PV modules. The company's 40+ years of experience in the solar industry have enabled it to become a design and development leader in its field. Silfab operates from Toronto, Canada and Bellingham, Washington (USA), with automated ISO 9001-2015 quality production lines that use just-in-time manufacturing to deliver top-notch PV panels. The panels are specifically designed for and dedicated to the North American market, ensuring they meet the region's unique requirements.

Read More

ENERGY

Canadian Solar Announces Commercial Operation of Three Projects in Japan

Canadian Solar Inc. | March 16, 2023

Canadian Solar Inc., a solar technology and renewable energy company, has recently announced that its three solar power projects in Japan, particularly in Gunma Takasaki, Oita Kitsuki, and Yamaguchi Hofu, have reached their commercial operation in early 2023, totaling about 42 MWp. Canadian Solar's bifacial BiHiKu modules powered these projects. The grid operators from the respective areas purchased the energy generated from the projects through Japan's feed-in-tariff program. This purchase would continue for about 19 years at the rates of JPY32 (US$0.24), JPY14.49 (US$0.11), and JPY14.25 (US$0.10) per kWh in approximation. The projects would produce about 53,000 MWh of renewable energy. This energy will power over 15,000 households and avoid approximately 24,000 tons of carbon emissions per year. It is delivering more clean, safe and affordable solar energy to the world. Of the total project pipeline, 2.9 GWp of projects are in late-stage development and have secured energy offtake agreements. In addition, it has a geographically diversified utility-scale solar power project pipeline of around 10 GWp. Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar Inc., Dr. Shawn Qu said, "We are delighted to be part of the green transformation that Japan is going through with these additions to our portfolio. Our teams worked closely with the local communities and governments to bring these projects to fruition. Working closely with the local community to cultivate a sustainable long-term relationship is one of our ESG sustainable development goals. Canadian Solar's Sustainability Report provides a detailed discussion on our ESG goals, targets and approaches." (Source – Cision PR Newswire) About Canadian Solar Inc. Headquartered in Guelph, Ontario, Canadian Solar Inc., a renewable energy semiconductor manufacturing company, offers solutions for solar projects, solar panels, PV applications, bankability, solar modules, solar farms, renewable energy, and sustainability. It has been working as a global energy and solar energy solutions provider and solar PV modules manufacturer since 2001. It has conducted successful business subsidiaries in different countries and delivered about 55 GW of solar modules worldwide. It runs solar power projects and plants with the commercial operation, with a resale value of approximately US$1.2 billion. It was listed as Bloomberg New Energy Finance's Tier 1 Module Manufacturer in bankability for Q4 2018. GTM Research named it the Top 3 Global Utility-scale Solar PV Project Developer for 2017.

Read More

SOLAR+STORAGE, SUSTAINABILITY

Fluence Mosaic™ to Optimize Energy Storage Revenue in ERCOT

Fluence | February 23, 2023

On February 22, 2023, Fluence Energy, a global leader in energy storage products, services, and cloud-based renewables and storage apps, launched Fluence Mosaic™, an innovative bidding software for grid-scale energy storage and renewable assets, in the ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) wholesale power market. Over 350 MW of battery-based energy storage systems will commence operations with Mosaic in 2023. This announcement marks Mosaic™'s first project in ERCOT, with the bid optimization software tailored to the Texas energy market's rules and products. Mosaic™ will maximize energy and ancillary services bids and offers in ERCOT's electricity market, beginning in 2023, with two assets expected to come online. This is part of a framework agreement with a large power company for its new energy storage assets in ERCOT. Utilizing AI, the solution automates the creation of advanced price projections and optimal hourly and intra-hour (up to 5 minute) bids. This assists asset owners and traders navigate ERCOT's complex electricity market, enables energy storage systems to respond quickly and effectively to grid requirements, and maximizes market participation revenue. Currently, the solution for ERCOT supports any technology provider's energy storage systems. Mosaic™ accommodates detailed market rules and real-time data to allow asset owners and traders to optimize participation in wholesale electricity markets and leverage the complete value of their assets. The solution is also available in the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM) and the California ISO (CAISO) market. Currently, the software is enhancing over 5 GW of clean energy assets worldwide, with a total of over 9 GW awarded or deployed. Fluence offers two SaaS products as part of the Fluence IQTM Digital Platform: Fluence NisperaTM and Mosaic™, with a combined portfolio of more than 18 GW of contracted or managed assets worldwide. NisperaTM is an asset performance management software powered by AI that lets owners and managers of solar, hydro, wind, and storage assets minimize downtime, uncover hidden performance issues, and maximize energy production. About Fluence Based in Arlington, Virginia, Fluence is a market leader in energy storage services and products, along with cloud-based software for renewables and storage. With a presence in over 40 global markets, the company provides modular, scalable energy storage products, comprehensive services, and the Fluence IQTM Platform, which offers AI-enabled SaaS products for managing and optimizing renewables and storage. Fluence transforms the energy industry by helping customers create more sustainable and resilient electric grids.

Read More

SOLAR+STORAGE

Silfab Solar Expands Product Line with ELITE Solar Panels

Silfab Solar | February 28, 2023

Silfab Solar Inc., a leading photovoltaic (PV) modules manufacturer in North America, has recently announced that the next generation of Silfab ELITE – a more powerful and visually pleasing line of American-made solar panels – is now being shipped to installers throughout the country. The company utilized its patented X-pattern technology to create an efficient and robust solar panel that merges integrated cell design with an innovative conductive backsheet. Silfab ELITE generates 410 watts of power with an efficiency rating of 21.4%, with one of the best warranties in the industry. Additionally, the solar panels are exclusively manufactured in Washington at one of the most technologically advanced facilities in the United States. Silfab has manufacturing facilities across North America to serve the expanding US solar market. The company uses industry-leading automation for ultra-high efficiency module production, enables partnerships for next-gen technology applications, and provides 30-year performance warranties for its entire line of solar panels. Consistently ranked as a top provider of solar panels in terms of durability and efficiency, Silfab is the result of stringent testing and quality assurance measures coupled with superior customer service. Paolo Maccario, Chief Executive Officer at Silfab, shared, "Silfab has designed, engineered, and developed the most powerful and absolutely stunning solar panel exclusively manufactured in the United States. With its all-black sleek look, ELITE provides the aesthetics homeowners have been looking for," He added, "ELITE is another example of Silfab's 40-year record of technological and engineering prowess that give American homeowners and businesses the energy independence they deserve. ELITE puts America solar products back on top." (Source – PR Newswire) About Silfab Solar Inc. Silfab Solar, headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, is a leading North American manufacturer of premium quality PV modules. The company's 40+ years of experience in the solar industry have enabled it to become a design and development leader in its field. Silfab operates from Toronto, Canada and Bellingham, Washington (USA), with automated ISO 9001-2015 quality production lines that use just-in-time manufacturing to deliver top-notch PV panels. The panels are specifically designed for and dedicated to the North American market, ensuring they meet the region's unique requirements.

Read More

ENERGY

Canadian Solar Announces Commercial Operation of Three Projects in Japan

Canadian Solar Inc. | March 16, 2023

Canadian Solar Inc., a solar technology and renewable energy company, has recently announced that its three solar power projects in Japan, particularly in Gunma Takasaki, Oita Kitsuki, and Yamaguchi Hofu, have reached their commercial operation in early 2023, totaling about 42 MWp. Canadian Solar's bifacial BiHiKu modules powered these projects. The grid operators from the respective areas purchased the energy generated from the projects through Japan's feed-in-tariff program. This purchase would continue for about 19 years at the rates of JPY32 (US$0.24), JPY14.49 (US$0.11), and JPY14.25 (US$0.10) per kWh in approximation. The projects would produce about 53,000 MWh of renewable energy. This energy will power over 15,000 households and avoid approximately 24,000 tons of carbon emissions per year. It is delivering more clean, safe and affordable solar energy to the world. Of the total project pipeline, 2.9 GWp of projects are in late-stage development and have secured energy offtake agreements. In addition, it has a geographically diversified utility-scale solar power project pipeline of around 10 GWp. Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar Inc., Dr. Shawn Qu said, "We are delighted to be part of the green transformation that Japan is going through with these additions to our portfolio. Our teams worked closely with the local communities and governments to bring these projects to fruition. Working closely with the local community to cultivate a sustainable long-term relationship is one of our ESG sustainable development goals. Canadian Solar's Sustainability Report provides a detailed discussion on our ESG goals, targets and approaches." (Source – Cision PR Newswire) About Canadian Solar Inc. Headquartered in Guelph, Ontario, Canadian Solar Inc., a renewable energy semiconductor manufacturing company, offers solutions for solar projects, solar panels, PV applications, bankability, solar modules, solar farms, renewable energy, and sustainability. It has been working as a global energy and solar energy solutions provider and solar PV modules manufacturer since 2001. It has conducted successful business subsidiaries in different countries and delivered about 55 GW of solar modules worldwide. It runs solar power projects and plants with the commercial operation, with a resale value of approximately US$1.2 billion. It was listed as Bloomberg New Energy Finance's Tier 1 Module Manufacturer in bankability for Q4 2018. GTM Research named it the Top 3 Global Utility-scale Solar PV Project Developer for 2017.

Read More

SOLAR+STORAGE, SUSTAINABILITY

Fluence Mosaic™ to Optimize Energy Storage Revenue in ERCOT

Fluence | February 23, 2023

On February 22, 2023, Fluence Energy, a global leader in energy storage products, services, and cloud-based renewables and storage apps, launched Fluence Mosaic™, an innovative bidding software for grid-scale energy storage and renewable assets, in the ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) wholesale power market. Over 350 MW of battery-based energy storage systems will commence operations with Mosaic in 2023. This announcement marks Mosaic™'s first project in ERCOT, with the bid optimization software tailored to the Texas energy market's rules and products. Mosaic™ will maximize energy and ancillary services bids and offers in ERCOT's electricity market, beginning in 2023, with two assets expected to come online. This is part of a framework agreement with a large power company for its new energy storage assets in ERCOT. Utilizing AI, the solution automates the creation of advanced price projections and optimal hourly and intra-hour (up to 5 minute) bids. This assists asset owners and traders navigate ERCOT's complex electricity market, enables energy storage systems to respond quickly and effectively to grid requirements, and maximizes market participation revenue. Currently, the solution for ERCOT supports any technology provider's energy storage systems. Mosaic™ accommodates detailed market rules and real-time data to allow asset owners and traders to optimize participation in wholesale electricity markets and leverage the complete value of their assets. The solution is also available in the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM) and the California ISO (CAISO) market. Currently, the software is enhancing over 5 GW of clean energy assets worldwide, with a total of over 9 GW awarded or deployed. Fluence offers two SaaS products as part of the Fluence IQTM Digital Platform: Fluence NisperaTM and Mosaic™, with a combined portfolio of more than 18 GW of contracted or managed assets worldwide. NisperaTM is an asset performance management software powered by AI that lets owners and managers of solar, hydro, wind, and storage assets minimize downtime, uncover hidden performance issues, and maximize energy production. About Fluence Based in Arlington, Virginia, Fluence is a market leader in energy storage services and products, along with cloud-based software for renewables and storage. With a presence in over 40 global markets, the company provides modular, scalable energy storage products, comprehensive services, and the Fluence IQTM Platform, which offers AI-enabled SaaS products for managing and optimizing renewables and storage. Fluence transforms the energy industry by helping customers create more sustainable and resilient electric grids.

Read More

Events