"Off-grid" Solar Integrated Curtain Walls Developed by Obayashi Co. in Japan

In April, Obayashi Co, a leading construction service company in Japan, announced that it has developed and installed a solar integrated (BIPV) curtain wall system as one of its testing facilities.

The curtain wall is made of crystalline silicon cells with glasses.

Unlike regular BIPV systems, this system is not connected to the grid. The power generated by this system is used to operate energy efficient windows and retractable screens for windows and stored in batteries.

Some benefits of being off-grid are (1) power can be used for communications and lights in case of emergencies and (2) it can be quickly installed since it doesn't need to go through lengthy regulatory procedures with utilities.