We’ve seen examples of solar panels that attempt to seamlessly integrate into a building envelope before, recall Tegolasolare Integrated Terracotta Solar Panels, or the Case Dynamic Solar Facade. The unmistakable look of a solar panel, while associated with energy savings and good deeds to the environment, is not always suited for every project. Sometimes a more subtle look is needed, which is becoming easier to achieve thanks to companies like Suntech.

See Thru. Designed by Suntech.

Suntech was founded in 2001 by Dr. Zhengrong Shi, one of the world’s leading solar technology innovators. Suntech produces silicon solar modules and pluto cell technology that can be used in residential, commercial and utility-scale projects. Suntech is working to create more efficient clean energy methods that can be used in all types of environments and sun climates.

Suntech See Thru is a semi-transparent photovoltaic glazing that resembles tinted glass. See Thru works by sandwiching a 0.3-micron-thick layer of amorphous silicon between glass laminate and uses edge-mounted electrical connections to conceal all wiring within the frame. The panels reduce the need for electric lighting via day lighting, limit solar heat gain through their unique tinted glazing, and produce clean energy to power the building. Suntech See Thru absorbs more solar heat than low-e glass, which tends to simply reflect heat away. With See Thru, heat and light from the sun’s rays are absorbed and converted into electricity by the photovoltaic interlayer, creating a multi-functioning, truly green building product. See Thru can be used in curtain walls, skylights, canopies, atriums to name a few.