Researchers from University of Exeter, England have developed a solar power device that fits into glass blocks. The product can broadly replace glass blocks used for a building’s façade, and transform the exteriors into energy-generating surfaces. Named as Solar Squared, the blocks absorb solar radiation using intelligent optics. These optics direct the sunlight onto the solar cells to generate electicity.  This electricity can then be stored in a battery system, supply energy to the building in real time, or be used to charge electric cars. Further, sufficient daylighting levels can be achieved due to the transparency of the blocks.

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