WO2019145927A1

WO2019145927A1 - Solar panel arrangement

Info

Publication number: WO2019145927A1
Application number: PCT/IB2019/050710
Authority: WO
Inventors: Peter Andrew LEVERMORE; João Paulo DRUMOND GERVÁSIO; Jeferson DE FREITAS; Guilherme Metzker OLIVEIRA
Original assignee: Sunew Filmes Fotovoltaicos
Priority date: 2018-01-29
Filing date: 2019-01-29
Publication date: 2019-08-01
Also published as: GB2570493A; GB201801396D0

Abstract

Disclosed is a solar panel arrangement. The solar panel arrangement includes a first panel having a first-panel exterior surface and a first-panel interior surface, at least one solar panel having a solar-panel 5 exterior surface, an active layer and a solar-panel interior surface, and a second panel having a second-panel exterior surface and a second-panel interior surface. The first panel is associated with a first transmittance resulting in a first transmitted radiation. The at least one solar panel is associated with a second transmittance, resulting in a 10 second transmitted radiation. The second panel is associated with a first reflectance and a third transmittance, resulting in a first reflected radiation and a third transmitted radiation. Furthermore, at least a portion of the first transmitted radiation and at least a portion of the first reflected radiation, is absorbed by the active layer through the 15 exterior and interior surfaces respectively, for generating electrical energy.

Description

SOLAR PANEL ARRANGEMENT

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to solar panel arrangements, wherein the solar panel arrangements are useable for solar energy harvesting.

BACKGROUND

Conventionally, non-renewable energy sources, such as fossil fuels, have been a primary source of energy for centuries. However, such non-renewable energy sources are unable to meet an ever-increasing demand for energy, and thus are depleting at unprecedented rates. Furthermore, the contribution of non-renewable energy sources towards anthropogenic climate change has been widely studied and scientifically verified. With advancements in energy technologies, renewable energy sources have emerged as a promising energy source.

With developments in photovoltaic technologies, solar energy has evolved as an energy source capable of being harnessed as electrical energy. Solar photovoltaic panels, also known as "solar panels", are generally used to convert solar power into electrical energy. However, when setting up solar panels, there are required vast expanses of land to generate electrical energy in sufficient amounts to power human settlements (such as to power a residential complex or commercial building). Furthermore, such expanses of land are rarely available in congested and/or urban areas. Nowadays, solar panels may be implemented on fagades of glass buildings, thereby eliminating the requirement of land for setting up solar panels. However, conventional solar panels are opaque or have very low transparency, therefore limiting visibility from within the building. Furthermore, conventional solar panels may not be able to harness the full potential of the solar power received thereon.

Therefore, in view of inadequacies in operation of known solar panels, there is a need to address, for example to overcome, aforementioned technical problems associated with conventional solar panels.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure seeks to provide an improved solar panel arrangement. According to a first aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a solar panel arrangement, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement includes:

- a first panel having a first-panel exterior surface that is configured to receive light and a first-panel interior surface opposite to the first-panel exterior surface, wherein the first panel is configured to transmit at least a portion of the light received at the first-panel exterior surface through the first-panel interior surface according to a first transmittance to provide a first transmitted radiation;

- at least one solar panel having a solar-panel exterior surface that is optically coupled to the first-panel interior surface, a solar- panel interior surface that is opposite to the solar-panel exterior surface, and an active layer disposed between the solar-panel exterior surface and the solar-panel interior surface, wherein the at least one solar panel is configured to receive a first transmitted radiation at the solar-panel exterior surface and to transmit a portion of the first transmitted radiation through the active layer and then through the solar-panel interior surface according to a second transmittance to provide a second transmitted radiation; and

- a second panel having a second-panel exterior surface that is optically coupled to the solar-panel interior surface, and a second- panel interior surface that is opposite to the second-panel exterior surface, wherein the second panel is configured to receive the second transmitted radiation and to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation according to a first reflectance to provide a first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second- panel interior surface according to a third transmittance to provide a third transmitted radiation;

wherein:

- at least a portion of the first transmitted radiation is absorbed by the active layer of the at least one solar panel through the solar-panel exterior surface for generating electrical energy; and

- at least a portion of the first reflected radiation is absorbed by the active layer of the at least one solar panel through the solar- panel interior surface for generating electrical energy. The present disclosure is capable of providing an improved solar panel arrangement performance by way of including the at least one solar panel between the first panel and second panel, such that the at least one solar panel is disposed to receive and absorb a portion of the light transmitted through the first panel as well as a portion of the light reflected from the second panel, thereby increasing efficiency and energy generation.

Moreover, the solar panel arrangement is capable of exhibiting an enhanced operating lifetime, and provides efficient generation of electric energy, while enhancing a visual appearance of a given structure (such as a fagade) wherein the solar panel arrangement is deployed. Optionally, the second-panel is configured to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation at the second-panel exterior surface according to the first reflectance to provide the first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second-panel interior surface according to the third transmittance to provide the third transmitted radiation.

More optionally, the second-panel is configured to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation at the second-panel interior surface according to the first reflectance to provide the first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second-panel interior surface according to the third transmittance to provide the third transmitted radiation.

Optionally, the third transmitted radiation through the second panel is substantially zero, and the second panel provides substantially complete reflectance of the second transmitted radiation.

Optionally, the third transmitted radiation is less than 5% of the remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation.

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement includes a metalized layer arranged within or on a surface of the second panel, wherein the metalized layer provides the second panel with at least partial reflectance.

Optionally, the first-panel exterior surface and interior surface, the solar-panel exterior surface and interior surface, and the second-panel exterior and interior surface are all parallel to one another. Optionally, the first and second panels are fabricated from at least one of: a glass, a plastics material, or a combination thereof. Optionally, the first transmittance of the first panel is in a range of 80% to 100%.

Optionally, the second transmittance of the at least one solar panel is in a range of 10% to 50%. Optionally, the third transmittance of the second panel is in a range of 0% to 80%.

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement further includes a first intermediate optical coupler positioned between the first-panel interior surface and the solar-panel exterior surface, and a second intermediate optical coupler positioned between the solar-panel interior surface and the second-panel exterior surface. More optionally, the first and second intermediate optical couplers are fabricated from at least one of: an ethylene vinyl acetate-type material, a polyvinyl butyral-type material, an ionoplast material, or a combination thereof. Optionally, the at least one solar panel is one of: an organic photovoltaic solar panel, a perovskite solar panel, a thin film photovoltaic panel, or a combination thereof.

Optionally, the at least one solar panel includes at least one substrate layer; at least two electrodes for providing an electrical output from the at least one solar panel and at least one active layer for converting light transmitted to the at least one solar panel into electrical output. Optionally, the at least one solar panel further includes an at least one transport layer.

Optionally, the transmittance of the active layer is in the range of 10% to 60%.

Optionally, the at least one solar panel further includes an at least one first encapsulation film, wherein the at least one first encapsulation film is positioned such that the at least two electrodes and at least one active layer are enclosed between the at least one first encapsulation film and the at least one substrate layer.

Optionally, the at least one solar panel further includes an at least one second encapsulation film, wherein the second encapsulation film is positioned such that the at least one substrate layer, the at least two electrodes and the at least one active layer are enclosed between the at least one first encapsulation film and the at least one second encapsulation film. Optionally, the first panel, the second panel, the first intermediate optical coupler, the second intermediate optical coupler and the at least one substrate layer all have a mutually similar refractive index. More optionally, the first panel, the second panel, the first intermediate optical coupler, the second intermediate optical coupler, the at least one substrate layer, the at least one first encapsulation film and the at least one second encapsulation film all have a mutually similar refractive index.

Optionally, the mutually similar refractive indexes are the same to within an error margin of not more than +/- 10%, more optionally not more than +/- 5%, and most optionally not more than +/- 1%. Optionally, the mutually similar refractive indexes are in a range of 1.40 - 1.60, or more optionally in the range of 1.45 - 1.55, and even more optionally in the range of 1.49 - 1.51.

Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler is in contact with the first-panel interior surface and the solar-panel exterior surface, and the second intermediate optical coupler is in contact with the second-panel exterior surface and the solar-panel interior surface. Optionally, the first panel has thickness in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, and more preferably thickness in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm, the second panel has thickness in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, and more preferably thickness in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm, the solar panel has thickness in a range of 0.05 mm to 1 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, the first intermediate optical coupler has thickness in a range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, and the second intermediate optical coupler has thickness in a range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm.

Optionally, the first panel, the second panel, the first intermediate optical coupler and the second intermediate optical coupler extend laterally in one or more dimensions beyond an extent of the solar panel, thereby creating a border region next to the solar panel. Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler and the second intermediate optical coupler provide a physical adhesion between the first panel and the second panel in the border region next to the solar panel.

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement further includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member, wherein the first and second sealing members are positioned along lateral edges of the first and second intermediate optical couplers.

Optionally, the first and second sealing members are fabricated from a non-acidic silicone material. Optionally, the solar panel arrangement is configured to be electrically connectable to an electrical energy storage element for harvesting electrical energy generated by the solar panel arrangement. Optionally, the electrical energy storage element includes a rechargeable battery selected from a group of a sealed lead acid battery, a supercapacitor, a Lithium-ion battery, a Lithium-Iron polymer battery, a Nickel-iron battery, Sodium-Sulphur battery, a Silicon- alkaline battery, a Nickel-cadmium battery and Nickel-metal hydride battery.

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement is configured to be rooftop- mounted or wall-mounted.

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement is configured to be used as a window pane. More optionally, the solar panel arrangement is a flexible structure. Yet more optionally, the at least one solar panel includes a plurality of solar cells. Yet more optionally, the at least one solar panel includes a plurality of solar panels. Yet more optionally, the at least one solar panel includes a plurality of solar cells on a plurality of solar panels.

It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers. Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of a solar panel arrangement, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGs. 1B-D are block diagrams of an exemplary at least one solar panel, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGs. 2A-C are schematic illustrations of cross-sectional views of various solar panel arrangements, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of top view of a solar panel arrangement, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a ray diagram depicting a solar panel arrangement in a utilized state, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIGs. 5A-E depicts details of a working example of a solar panel arrangement of the present disclosure: FIG. 5A is a table depicting enhanced efficiently of the solar panel arrangement of the present disclosure as compared to conventional solar panel arrangement; FIG. 5B depicts the cross-section view of the solar panel arrangement; FIG. 5C depicts the arrangement of layers of the solar panel in the solar panel arrangement; FIG. 5D depicts the layout of the solar cells of one solar panel in the solar cell arrangement; and FIG. 5E depicts the layout of the solar panels in the solar panel arrangement.

In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In overview, embodiments of the present disclosure are concerned with an improved solar panel arrangement.

Referring to FIG. 1A, there is shown a schematic cross-sectional view of a solar panel arrangement 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the solar panel arrangement 100 includes a first panel 102, at least one solar panel 108 and a second panel 114. Optionally, the at least one solar panel 108 is implemented as a plurality of solar panels. Alternatively, the at least one solar panel 108 is implemented as a single solar panel.

Throughout the present disclosure, the term 'solar panel arrangement' as used herein, relates to an arrangement of both electronic and non electronic elements that are positioned in a specific manner for harnessing solar energy. For example, the solar panel arrangement 100 may include an array of solar panels sealed within a protective covering. In such an example, the protective covering may be operable to resist the ingress of water and oxygen, thereby preventing the degradation of the solar panels. Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 is a laminated solar architecture including one or more semi-transparent solar modules enclosed therein. Beneficially, the solar panel arrangement 100 is operable to enhance visual appearance of a structure (such as a fagade of a building). Optionally, enhancement of visual appearance could be through the solar panel arrangement 100 having similar or equivalent optical transmittance and reflectance to other elements of the fagade. Optionally, enhancement of visual appearance could be through the solar panel arrangement 100 having similar or equivalent color to other elements of the fagade. Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 is operable to harness energy from both sunlight and artificial light, such as incandescent and fluorescent light. It will be appreciated that generating electrical energy by using the solar panel arrangement 100 can occur with light being provided by an artificial light source and also from a natural ambient light source. The first panel 102 has a first-panel exterior surface 104 that is configured to receive light and a first-panel interior surface 106 that is opposite to the first-panel exterior surface 104. Throughout the present disclosure, the term ' first panel' as used herein, relates to a structure that is preferentially positioned within the solar panel arrangement 100 between the at least one solar panel 108 and the primary light source, for example, when deployed in an orientation for operation, to harvest energy in sunlight that is incident thereupon. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the first-panel exterior surface 104 and the first-panel interior surface 106 are sides of the first panel 102 that are closest and furthest, respectively, from the primary light source when arranged within the solar panel arrangement 100. Optionally, the first panel 102 is fabricated from at least one of: a glass, a plastics material, or a combination thereof. For example, the first panel 102 is fabricated from a low-iron glass, such as a Cebrace Extra Clear® glass. Optionally, the first panel 102 includes various appropriate shapes and structures that are suitable for being overlaid onto the solar panel arrangement 100. For example, such "appropriate shapes and structures" include circular, elliptical, triangular, quadrilateral, rectangular, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal, polygonal and the likes. Optionally, the structure of the first panel 102 is similar to that of a glass sheet. For example, the first panel 102 is a low-iron glass sheet.

The first panel 102 is configured (namely, operable) to transmit at least a portion of the light received at the first-panel exterior surface 104 through the first-panel interior surface 106 according to a first transmittance to provide a first transmitted radiation. Throughout the present disclosure, the term ' transmittance ' as used herein, relates to fraction of incident light that passes through a structure. Specifically, the first transmittance is the fraction of light transmitted through first- panel interior surface 106, with respect to total amount of light incident on the first-panel exterior surface 104. Furthermore, the first transmittance refers to an actual measured value of the passage of light through the first panel 102. Additionally, the measured value is optionally conveniently expressed as a percentage of the total amount of light incident on the first panel 102 and is measured using a specified range of wavelengths of light or a specified range of wavelengths of light. Optionally, the specified range of wavelengths of light corresponds to the visible spectrum from 380 nm to 780 nm. Throughout the present disclosure, the term ' first transmitted radiation' as used herein, relates to the amount of light that is transmitted through the first panel 102. Optionally the first transmitted radiation is the amount of the light transmitted through the first-panel interior surface 106. Furthermore, the first transmitted radiation is, to an approximation, neglecting any small losses in an optional first intermediate optical coupler 120, the amount of light that is incident on the at least one solar panel 108 through the solar-panel exterior surface 110.

Optionally, the first panel 102 is implemented as a high transmittance low-iron glass sheet. Optionally, the first transmittance of the first panel 102 is in a range of 80% to 100%, more optionally the first transmittance is in a range of 85% to 95%. Optionally, the first transmittance of the first panel 102 is 90%. Optionally, the first panel is implemented as a high transmittance low-iron glass sheet with semi transparency in respect of transmission of incident light therethrough. Additionally, the first panel 102 is an outward facing component, wherein the solar panel arrangement 100 is implemented as a transparent laminated solar module for a window fagade and/or a fagade of a building. Optionally, the first panel 102 forms a protective layer over the at least one solar panel 108 of solar panel arrangement 100. Optionally, the first panel 102 is capable of restricting, namely resisting, ingress of water to the at least one solar panel 108.

The at least one solar panel 108 has a solar-panel exterior surface 110 that is optically coupled to the first-panel interior surface 106, a solar- panel interior surface 112 that is opposite to the solar-panel exterior surface 110, and an active layer (not shown) disposed between the solar-panel exterior surface 110 and the solar-panel interior surface 112.

Throughout the present disclosure, the term ' solar pane G as used herein, relates to an arrangement including a single solar cell, or a solar cell array (wherein the array includes a plurality of solar cells) configured (namely, operable) to transform solar energy into electrical energy. For example, the solar cells may include thin film solar cells (for example, including active thin films of material deposited onto a substrate), organic solar cells (for example, including optically active organic materials in a thin film or bulk configuration deposited by vapour or printing techniques), perovskite solar cells, and so forth, or any combination of the aforementioned solar cells.

Optionally, the at least one solar panel 108 includes a plurality of solar cells, for example as aforementioned. Optionally, the at least one solar panel 108 is to be understood to include singular or plural such panels or structures, whether used ind ividually, as a part of a grouping, system, or array, or as a part of a plurality of groupings, systems, or arrays. Furthermore, it may be appreciated that the solar-panel exterior surface 110 and the solar-panel interior surface 112 are sides of the at least one solar panel 108 that are closest and furthest, respectively, from the primary light sou rce when arranged within the solar panel arrangement 100, for example when deployed in an orientation for operation, to harvest energy in sunlig ht that is incident thereupon.

The term 'optically coupled' means any connection, coupling, link or the like that allows for imparting of light from one element to another element, for example, imparting of light from the first-panel interior surface 106 to the solar-panel exterior surface 110. Furthermore, the first-panel interior surface 106 and the solar-panel exterior surface 110 are not necessarily directly connected to one another and may be separated by intermediate gaps, components or devices. Optionally, the at least one solar pa nel 108 has a solar-panel exterior surface 110 that is positioned adjacent to the first-panel interior surface 106, and a solar-panel interior su rface 112 that is opposite to the solar-panel exterior surface 110. Optionally, "adjacent" means mutually abutting in contact. Optionally, "adjacent" means in close proximity, but with a small gap therebetween, for example a gap having a width in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm. Throughout the present disclosure, the term 'active layer ' as used herein, relates to a layer of photoactive material that is capable of absorbing photons from incident light and subsequently, generating electron-hole pairs. Optionally, the active layer comprises electron- donor and electron-acceptor materials. The active layer can comprise metallic semiconductors, photo-reactive small molecules, polymers or combination thereof, and so forth.

The at least one solar panel 108 is configured to receive the first transmitted radiation (neglecting any small losses in an optional first intermediate optical coupler 120) at the solar-panel exterior surface 110 and to transmit a portion of the first transmitted radiation through the active layer and then to the solar-panel interior surface 112 according to a second transmittance, to provide a second transmitted radiation. Furthermore, the second transmittance relates to the fraction of incident light (i.e. substantially the first transmitted radiation) that passes from one side of the at least one solar panel 108 to the other side of the at least one solar panel 108. The second transmittance is the fraction of the light that is transmitted through the solar-panel interior surface 112, with respect to the total amount of light that is incident on the solar-panel exterior surface 110. It may be appreciated that, neglecting any small losses in an optional first intermediate optical coupler 120, the total amount of light that is incident on the solar-panel exterior surface 110 is substantially the light that is transmitted through the first-panel interior surface 106. Furthermore, the second transmittance refers to the actual measured value of the passage of light through the at least one solar panel 108. Additionally, the measured value is conveniently expressed as a percentage of the total amount of light incident on the at least one solar panel 108 and is measured using a specified range of wavelengths of light. Optionally, the specified range of wavelength of light corresponds to the visible spectrum from 380 nm to 780 nm. Throughout the present disclosure, the term 'second transmitted radiation' as used herein, relates to the amount of light that is transmitted through the at least one solar panel 108. Optionally the second transmitted radiation is the amount of light transmitted through the solar-panel interior surface 112. Furthermore, the second transmitted radiation is, to an approximation, neglecting any small losses in an optional second intermediate optical coupler 122, substantially the amount of light that is incident on the second panel

114.

The first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance. Specifically, the amount of light passing through the first panel 102 is comparatively higher than the amount of light passing through the at least one solar panel 108. A portion of the amount of light incident on the at least one solar panel 108 is absorbed by the one or more solar cells arranged therein (for example, a plurality of solar cells arranged therein). Subsequently, the absorbed amount of light is used to generate electrical energy. The at least one solar panel 108 is implemented as a semi-transparent solar panel, namely a portion of the light passes through the structure of the at least one solar panel 108. Optionally, the second transmittance of the at least one solar panel 108 is in a range of 10% to 50%. Optionally, the second transmittance of the at least one solar panel 108 is in a range of 20% to 40%. Optionally, the second transmittance of the at least one solar panel 108 is 30%.

Optionally, the at least one solar panel 108 is one of a thin film solar panel, an organic photovoltaic solar panel, a perovskite solar panel, or a combination thereof. For example, there could be employed a perovskite solar panel that has complementary optical response characteristics to that of an organic photovoltaic solar panel so that electrical power can be generated over a broader range of solar illuminating conditions. Optionally, an organic photovoltaic solar panel relates to an arrangement of a photo-reactive material that when exposed to light, interacts therewith to generate power, for example by the exposure to light, exciting free charge carriers in the photo-reactive material. Optionally, the organic photovoltaic solar panel can comprise a photo-reactive small molecule, polymer or combination thereof, which can be printed, vacuum coated or otherwise deposited onto a film. Optionally, the at least one solar panel 108 is multi-layered, for example includ ing a stack of layers. Optionally, the layers of the at least one solar panel 108 can be arranged in one or more manners (exemplary arrangements of the layers of the at least one solar panel 108 are shown in FIGs. 1 B-D) .

Referring to FIG. I B, there is shown a block diagram of an at least one solar panel 130 (such as the solar panel 108 of FIG. 1A), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The at least one solar panel 130 includes at least one substrate layer 132, at least one first electrode 134 and at least one second electrode 142 for providing an electrical output from the at least one solar panel 130. Furthermore, the at least one solar panel 130 includes at least one active layer 138 for converting light transmitted to the at least one solar panel 130 into electrical output Optionally, the at least one solar panel includes at least one transport layer for transporting electrical charge from the active layer 138 to the electrodes 134, 142. The exemplary solar panel 130 includes an optional first transport layer 136 and an optional second transport layer 140. Optionally, the at least one substrate layer 132 may be used for supporting the layers of the at least one solar panel 130. Furthermore, the substrate layer 132 is optionally fabricated from a g lass material (for example, amorphous Silicon Dioxide) and/or a plastics material (for example Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or Polyethylene Naphthalate (PEN)), or a combination of a glass and a plastics material.

The at least one solar panel 130 includes at least a first electrode 134 and a second electrode 142, wherein the two electrodes may include a positive and a negative electrode. The first and second electrodes 134, 142 are configured to have opposite polarity, with the first electrode 134 being a negative or positive electrode, and the second electrode 142 having opposite polarity from the first electrode 134. In such an example implementation, the at least two electrodes are arranged in a manner wherein the negative electrode may be transparent to enable passage of light. By "transparent" is meant, for example, to have an optical transmission of light in the range of wavelengths from 380 nm to 780 nm therethrough that is greater than 80%, optionally greater than 90%. Optionally, the negative electrode is fabricated from a transparent conductive oxide (TCO), such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO). Alternatively, the negative electrode optionally comprises a multilayer structure of a metal layer, such as a metal layer including silver (Ag), sandwiched between layers of TCO. Optionally, the positive electrode may be transparent to enable passage of light. By "transparent" is meant, for example, to have an optical transmission of light in the range of wavelengths from 380 nm to 780 nm therethrough that is greater than 80%, optionally greater than 90%. Optionally, the positive electrode is fabricated from a grid of gold, aluminium, copper or silver, carbon or silver nanowires or carbon or silver nanoparticles. Optionally, the positive electrode is fabricated from a semi-transparent layer of gold, aluminium, copper or silver, carbon or silver nanowires or carbon or silver nanoparticles. Optionally, the positive electrode is fabricated from a semi-transparent layer of polymer, such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)- poly(styrenesulfonate) (or PEDOT: PSS). Optionally, the positive electrode is fabricated from a combination of any of the aforementioned layers.

Optionally, the first electrode 134 is positioned between the substrate layer 132 and the active layer 138. Optionally, the second electrode 142 is positioned such that the active layer 138 is enclosed between the first electrode 134 and the second electrode 142. Optionally, the first electrode 134 has negative polarity. Optionally, the first electrode 134 has positive polarity. Furthermore, polarity of the second electrode 142 in each case is opposite to that of the first electrode 134.

Optionally, the at least one active layer 138 may comprise an organic photovoltaic material system. Optionally, the organic photovoltaic material system may include two principle components. In such an example implementation, the at least one active layer 138 may include a donor which absorbs received light, for example sunlight, and an acceptor which extracts electrons from an excitonic bound electron-hole pair, resulting in an electron traveling in the acceptor phase of the active layer 138 and a hole traveling in the donor phase. One such example of an organic photovoltaic material system having two principle components is Poly(3-hexylthiophene) : Phenyl-C61-Butyric Acid Methyl Ester (P3HT: PCBM), where P3HT functions as the donor, and PCBM functions as the acceptor. Optionally, the transmittance of the active layer 138 is in a range of 10% to 60%. Optionally, the transmittance of the active layer 138 is in a range of 20% to 50%. Optionally, the transmittance of the active layer 138 is in a range of 30% to 40%. This range of transmittance allows a portion of light to pass directly through the at least one active layer 138.

Optionally, the at least one active layer 138 may comprise a perovskite structured material system. In such an example implementation, the active layer 138 may comprise perovskite materials, with the general structure ABX3, where the A site is typically composed of organic methylammonium (MA), formamidinium (FA), or inorganic Caesium (Cs) or Rubidium (Rb) cations, the B site is typically composed of Lead (Pb), Tin (Sn) or Germanium (Ge), and the X site is typically composed of halides, such as iodine (I), Bromine (B), Chlorine (Cl) or a combination thereof. Some examples of active layer perovskite material systems include methylammonium lead triiodide (MAPbl3) and formamidinium lead triiodide (FAPb ). Optionally, the at least one solar panel 130 includes at least one transport layer. The at least one transport layer is operable primarily to transfer either an electron or a hole by way of a suitable positioning of the energy levels. Furthermore, in such an example implementation, the at least one transport layer may include an electron transport layer and/or a hole transport layer. In such an example implementation, the electron transport layer may be fabricated from materials that include Lithium Fluoride (LiF), Calcium (Ca), Polyethylenimine (PEI) and ethoxylated-polyethylenimine (PEIE), fullerenes such as PCBM or Spiro- OMeTAD/Spiro-MeOTAD (2,2',7,7'-Tetrakis[N,N-di(4-methoxyphenyl) amino]-9,9'-spirobifluorene), and metal oxides such as Zinc Oxide (ZnO) and Titanium Oxide (TiO). In such an example implementation, the hole transport layer may be fabricated from materials that include polymer matrix materials doped with conductive small molecules, for example, the polymer based Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) Polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT: PSS) or polytriarylamine, and a metal oxide such as molybdenum oxide (MoOx). Optionally, the at least one solar panel 130 includes the first transport layer 136 and the second transport layer 140. As shown, the first transport layer 136 is positioned between the first electrode 134 and the active layer 138, and a second transport layer 140 is positioned between the active layer 138 and the second electrode 142.

Referring to FIG. 1C, there is shown a block diagram of an exemplary implementation 130a of the at least one solar panel 130 of FIG. IB, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the at least one solar panel 130a further includes at least one encapsulation film 150 having at least one first barrier layer 152 and at least one first adhesive layer 154. For example, the at least one solar panel 130a may include the at least one first encapsulation film 150, wherein the first encapsulation film 150 is positioned such that the at least two electrodes 134, 142 and the at least one active layer 138 are enclosed between the first encapsulation film 150 and the at least one substrate layer 132. Optionally, the at least one transport layer, such as the optional first transport layer 136 and the optional second transport layer 140, is also enclosed between the first encapsulation film 150 and the at least one substrate layer 132.

Referring to FIG. ID, there is shown a block diagram of an exemplary implementation 130b of the at least one solar panel 130 of FIG. IB, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the at least one solar panel 130b further includes at least one second encapsulation film 160 having at least one second barrier layer 162 and at least one second adhesive layer 164. For example, the at least one solar panel 130b may include the at least one second encapsulation film 160 wherein the second encapsulation film 160 is positioned such that the at least one substrate layer 132, the at least two electrodes 134, 142 and the at least one active layer 138 are enclosed between the first encapsulation film 150 and the second encapsulation film 160. Optionally, at least one transport layer, such as the optional first transport layer 136 and the optional second transport layer 140, is also enclosed between the first encapsulation film 150 and the second encapsulation film 160.

Optionally, the first adhesive layer 154 of the first encapsulation film 150 may be used to affix the first barrier layer 152 of the first encapsulation film 150 in place to prevent ingress of water from an external environment to the active layer 138, thereby extending a lifetime of the at least one solar panel 130b. Optionally, the second adhesive layer 164 of the second encapsulation film 160 may be used to affix the second barrier layer 162 of the second encapsulation film 160 in place to prevent the ingress of water from the external environment to the active layer 138, thereby extending the lifetime of the at least one solar panel 130b. Optionally, the first adhesive layer 154 of the first encapsulation film 150 may comprise a UV-curable material, a hot-melt material or a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) material. Preferably, the first adhesive layer 154 of the first encapsulation film 150 has water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) less than 0.1 g/m²/day. More preferably, the first adhesive layer 154 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.01 g/m²/day. Even more preferably, the first adhesive layer 154 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.001 g/m²/day. Optionally, the second adhesive layer 164 of the second encapsulation film 160 may comprise a UV-curable material, a hot-melt material or a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) material. Preferably, the second adhesive layer 164 of the second encapsulation film 160 has water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) less than 0.1 g/m²/day. More preferably, the second adhesive layer 164 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.01 g/m²/day. Even more preferably, the second adhesive layer 164 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.001 g/m²/day.

Optionally, the first barrier layer 152 of the first encapsulation film 150 comprises a Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) film coated with a one or more layers of Silicon Nitride (SiN) or Silicon Oxide (SiOx). Preferably, the first barrier layer 152 of the first encapsulation film 150 has water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) less than 0.01 g/m²/day. More preferably, the first barrier layer 152 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.001 g/m²/day. Even more preferably, the first barrier layer 152 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.0001 g/m²/day.

Optionally, the second barrier layer 162 of the second encapsulation film 160 comprises a Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) film coated with a one or more layers of Silicon Nitride (SiN) or Silicon Oxide (SiOx). Preferably, the second barrier layer 162 of the second encapsulation film 160 has water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) less than 0.01 g/m²/day. More preferably, the second barrier layer 162 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.001 g/m²/day. Even more preferably, the second barrier layer 162 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.0001 g/m²/day. It is understood that the at least one solar panel 130, 130a-b is shown in FIGs. 1B-D by way of example only, and that additional layers, such as injection layers, further transport layers or adhesion layers could also be included in the at least one solar panel 130. It should also be understood that one or both of the transport layers (such as the first transport layer 136 and/or the second transport layer 140) shown in the exemplary at least one solar panel 130 could be excluded.

The second panel 114 has a second-panel exterior surface 116 that is optically coupled to the solar-panel interior surface 112, and a second- panel interior surface 118 that is opposite to the second-panel exterior surface 116. The term "optically coupled" means any connection, coupling, link or the like that allows for imparting of light from one element to another element, for example, imparting of light from the solar-panel interior surface 112 to the second-panel exterior surface 116. Furthermore, the solar-panel interior surface and the second- panel exterior surface are not necessarily directly connected to one another and may be separated by intermediate gaps, components or devices. Optionally, the second panel 114 has the second-panel exterior surface 116 that is positioned adjacent to the solar-panel interior surface 112, and the second-panel interior surface 118 that is opposite to the second-panel exterior surface 116. Optionally, "adjacent" means mutually abutting in contact. Optionally, "adjacent" means in close proximity, but with a small gap there between, for example a gap having a width in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm. Throughout the present disclosure, the term 'second pane G as used herein relates to a structure that is preferentially positioned within the solar panel arrangement 100 such that the at least one solar panel 108 is positioned between the second panel 114 and the primary light source, for example when deployed in an orientation for operation to harvest energy in sunlight that is incident thereupon. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the second-panel exterior surface 116 and the second-panel interior surface 118 are sides of the second panel 114 that are closest and furthest, respectively, from the primary light source when arranged within the solar panel arrangement 100.

Optionally, the second panel 114 is fabricated from at least one of a glass, a plastics material, or a combination thereof. For example, the second panel 114 is a low-iron glass, such as a Cebrace Cool Lite STB136® glass. Optionally, the second panel 114 includes various appropriate shapes and structures that are suitable for being overlaid onto the solar panel arrangement 100. For example, such "appropriate shapes and structures" include circular, elliptical, triangular, quadrilateral, rectangular, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal, polygonal and the likes. Optionally, the structure of the second panel 114 is similar to that of a glass sheet. For example, the second panel 114 is a low-iron glass sheet.

The second panel 114 is configured to receive the second transmitted radiation (neglecting any small losses in an optional second intermediate optical coupler 122) and to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation according to a first reflectance to provide a first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second-panel interior surface 118 according to a third transmittance to provide a third transmitted radiation. Throughout the present disclosure, the term 'first reflectance' as used herein, relates to an amount of light that is reflected back from the second panel 114. The first reflectance is the portion of the second transmitted radiation, which is incident on the second panel 114, that is reflected back from the second panel 114. Optionally, the first reflectance of the second panel 114 is in a range of 20% to 100%; more optionally, the first reflectance is in a range of 30% to 90%; and most optionally, the first reflectance is in a range of 50% to 70%. Throughout the present disclosure, the term 'first reflected radiation' as used herein relates to the amount of solar energy in the light that is reflected back from the second panel 114. Furthermore, the first reflected radiation is, to an approximation, neglecting any small losses in an optional second intermediate optical coupler 122, substantially the amount of light that is incident on the at least one solar panel 114 through the solar-panel interior surface 112, and is returned back to the solar-panel interior surface 112.

The second panel 114 is optionally configured (namely, operable) to transmit at least a portion of the light received at the second-panel exterior surface 116 to the second-panel interior surface 118 according to a third transmittance to provide a third transmitted radiation. Specifically, the third transmittance is the fraction of light transmitted through the second-panel interior surface 118, with respect to the total amount of light incident on the second-panel exterior surface 116. Furthermore, the third transmittance refers to the actual measured value of the passage of light through the second panel 114. Additionally, the measured value is optionally conveniently expressed as a percentage of the total amount of light incident on the second panel 114 and is measured using a specified wavelength of light or a specified range of wavelengths of light. Optionally, the specified range of wavelengths of light corresponds to the visible spectrum from 380 nm to 780 nm. Throughout the present disclosure, the term ' third transmitted radiation' as used herein relates to the amount of light that transmitted through the second panel 114. Optionally the third transmitted radiation is the amount of the light transmitted through the second-panel interior surface 118. The third transmitted radiation is, to an approximation, the amount of light incident on the second-panel exterior surface 116 that is not absorbed, or is reflected back to the solar-panel interior surface 112 and instead transmits through the second panel 114. Furthermore, the third transmitted radiation is the amount of light that is transmitted through the solar panel arrangement 100.

Optionally, the second panel 114 is implemented as a glass sheet with partial transmittance. Optionally, the third transmittance of the second panel 114 is in a range of 0% to 80%. Optionally, the third transmittance of the second panel 114 is in a range of 10% to 70%, more optionally the third transmittance in a range of 30% to 50%. Optionally, the third transmitted radiation through the second panel 114 is substantially zero, and that the second panel 114 provides substantially complete reflectance of the radiation incident on the second-panel exterior surface 116 (such as the second transmitted radiation). Optionally, the third transmitted radiation is less than 5% of the radiation incident on the second-panel exterior surface 116 (such as the remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation) . Optionally, the third transmitted radiation is less than 1% of the radiation incident on the second-panel exterior surface 116. Optionally, the third transmitted radiation is less than 0.01% of the radiation incident on the second-panel exterior surface 116. Optionally, the second panel 114 is implemented as a low-iron glass sheet.

Optionally, the second-panel 114 is configured to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation at the second-panel exterior surface 116 according to a first reflectance to provide a first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second-panel interior surface 118 according to a third transmittance to provide a third transmitted radiation. Optionally, the second-panel exterior surface 116 is operable to reflect the second transmitted radiation towards the solar-panel interior surface 112 (shown in FIG. 2A).

Optionally, the second transmitted radiation that is incident on the second-panel 114 is operable to be transmitted through the second- panel exterior surface 116. Optionally, the second-panel 114 is configured to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation at the second-panel interior surface 118 according to a first reflectance to provide a first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second-panel interior surface 118 according to a third transmittance to provide a third transmitted radiation. Optionally, the second-panel interior surface 118 is operable to reflect the second transmitted radiation towards the solar-panel interior surface 112 (shown in FIG. 2B). The first transmittance is greater than the third transmittance. Specifically, the intensity of light passing through the first panel 102 is comparatively higher than the amount of light passing through the second panel 114. A portion of the amount of light incident on the second panel 114 is reflected towards the solar-panel interior surface 112. Subsequently, the reflected portion of the light is absorbed by the least one solar panel 108 and thereafter, used to generate (namely, by conversion thereof to) electrical energy. Optionally, the second panel 114 is implemented as a semi-transparent layer. By "semi transparent" is meant transmittance in a range of 10% to 70%, more optionally in a range of 30% to 50%, or even more optionally substantially 40%.

Optionally, the transmittance of the at least one active layer 138 of the solar panel 108 and the second panel 114, can be tuned according to the required efficiency and transmittance. By "tuning" it is meant calibrating the transmittance of the active layer 138 and the second panel 114. A lower transmittance of the at least one active layer 138 generally provides higher efficiency for the solar panel arrangement 100 because a greater proportion of incident light is absorbed by the active layer 138 for energy generation. A lower transmittance of the second panel 114 may also provide higher efficiency for the solar panel arrangement 100, if instead a greater proportion of light incident on the second panel 108 is reflected back to the at least one active layer 138 for absorption and energy generation.

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 further includes the first intermediate optical coupler 120 positioned between the first-panel interior surface 106 and the solar-panel exterior surface 110. For example, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 is in contact with the first-panel interior surface 106 and the solar-panel exterior surface 110. Throughout the present disclosure, the term 'intermediate optical coupler’ as used herein, relates to a material and/or an element that are used to affix transparently two or more layers. By "transparently" is meant more than 80% of light can be transmitted therethrough.

Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 is operable to affix the first panel 102 and the at least one solar panel 108. Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 is operable to resist the ingress of water from the external environment to the at least one solar panel 108, thereby extending the lifetime of the solar panel arrangement 100. Preferably, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.1 g/m²/day. More preferably, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.01 g/m²/day. Even more preferably, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.001 g/m²/day. Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 includes desiccant materials that act as a water trap to resist the ingress of water from the external environment to the at least one solar panel 108.

Optionally, the first panel 102, the second panel 114, the at least one substrate layer 132 and the first intermediate optical coupler 120 have a mutually similar refractive index. Optionally, the first panel 102, the second panel 114, the at least one substrate layer 132, the optional first encapsulation film 150 and the first intermediate optical coupler 120 have a mutually similar refractive index. Optionally, the first panel 102, the second panel 114, the at least one substrate layer 132, the optional first encapsulation film 150, the optional second encapsulation film 160 and the first intermediate optical coupler 120 have a mutually similar refractive index. For example, by "mutually similar refractive index" is meant the same refractive index to within an error margin of not more than +/- 10%, more optionally not more than +/- 5%, and most optionally not more than +/- 1%. Optionally, the refractive index of the first intermediate optical coupler 120 is in a range of 1.4 to 1.6, more optionally the refractive index is in a range of 1.45 to 1.55, more optionally, the refractive index is in a range of 1.49 to 1.51. Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 that is positioned between the first-panel interior surface 106 and the solar- panel exterior surface 110, provides a negligible light obstruction. For example, by " negligible " is meant less than 20%, more optionally less than 10%, and most optionally less than 5%. Therefore, the light transmitted through the first-panel interior surface 106 is transmitted to the solar-panel exterior surface 110 with little or no loss.

Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 is fabricated from at least one of an ethylene vinyl acetate-type material, a poly vinyl butyral-type material, an ionoplast material, or a combination thereof. For example the first intermediate optical coupler 120 is fabricated from DuPont SentryGlas®. Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 includes additional filling materials that are more thermally conductive than the first intermediate optical coupler itself, to prevent the at least one solar panel 108 from overheating in conditions of high amounts of solar irradiation (for example, when the solar radiation has an energy flux of more than 500 W/m², and more optionally more than 1000 W/m²).

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 further includes a second intermediate optical coupler 122 positioned between the second-panel exterior surface 116 and the solar-panel interior surface 112. For example, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 is in contact with the second-panel exterior surface 116 and the solar-panel interior surface 112.

Optionally, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 is operable to affix the second panel 114 and the at least one solar panel 108. Optionally, the second intermediate optical coupler is operable to resist the ingress of water from the external environment to the at least one solar panel 108, thereby extending the lifetime of solar panel arrangement 100. Preferably, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.1 g/m²/day. More preferably, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.01 g/m²/day. Even more preferably, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 has water vapour transmission rate less than 0.001 g/m²/day. Optionally, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 includes desiccant materials that act as a water trap to resist the ingress of water from the external environment to the at least one solar panel 108.

The second intermediate optical coupler 122 is similar to the first intermediate optical coupler 120, such as the second intermediate optical coupler 122 relates to materials and/or elements that are used to affix two or more layers in a transparent manner. Optionally, the first panel 102, the second panel 114, the at least one substrate layer 132, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 and the second intermediate optical coupler 122 have a mutually similar refractive index. Optionally, the first panel 102, the second panel 114, the at least one substrate layer, the optional first encapsulation film 150, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 and the second intermediate optical coupler 122 have a mutually similar refractive index.

Optionally, the first panel 102, the second panel 114, the at least one substrate layer 132, the optional first encapsulation film 150, the optional second encapsulation film 160, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 and the second intermediate optical coupler 122 have a mutually similar refractive index. For example, by "mutually similar refractive index" is meant the same refractive index to within an error margin of not more than +/- 10%, more optionally not more than +/- 5%, and most optionally not more than +/- 1%. Optionally, the refractive index of the second intermediate optical coupler 122 is in a range of 1.4 to 1.6, more optionally the refractive index is in a range of 1.45 to 1.55, more optionally, the refractive index is in a range of 1.49 to 1.51. Optionally, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 that is positioned between the second-panel exterior surface 116 and the solar-panel interior surface 112 provides a negligible light obstruction. For example, by " negligible " is meant less than 20%, more optionally less than 10%, and most optionally less than 5%. Therefore, the light transmitted through the solar-panel interior surface 112 is incident on the second-panel exterior surface 116 with little or no loss.

Optionally, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 is fabricated from at least one of an ethylene vinyl acetate-type material, a poly vinyl butyral-type material, an ionoplast material, or a combination thereof. For example the second intermediate optical coupler 122 is fabricated from DuPont SentryGlas®. Optionally, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 includes additional filling materials that are more thermally conductive than the intermediate optical coupler itself, to assist to prevent the at least one solar panel 108 from overheating in conditions of high amounts of solar irradiation (for example, when the solar radiation has an energy flux of more than 500 W/m², and more optionally more than 1000 W/m²). Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 and the second intermediate optical coupler 122 are fabricated from the same material (for example, such that the the first intermediate optical coupler 120 can be interchangeably used with the second intermediate optical coupler 122).

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 further includes a first sealing member 124 and a second sealing member 126 positioned along lateral edges of the first and second intermediate optical couplers 120 and 122. Optionally, the first sealing member 124 and the second sealing member 126 are positioned in between the first-panel interior surface 106 and the second-panel exterior surface 116. Optionally, the first and second sealing members 124 and 126 are in contact with each other and form a continuous layer around the solar panel arrangement 100. Optionally, the first and the second sealing members 124 and 126 are capable of blocking ingress of water from the external environment to the at least one solar panel 108. Optionally, the first and the second sealing members 124 and 126 form a continuous barrier around the at least one solar panel 108, such that no part of the at least one solar panel 108 is in direct contact with the external environment. Optionally, the first and second sealing members 124 and 126 completely surround the at least one solar panel 108 and optional first and second optical couplers 120 and 122, such that no part of the at least one solar panel 108 is in direct contact with the external environment. Optionally, the first and second sealing members 124 and 126 are fabricated from the same material (for examples, such that the first sealing member 124 can be interchangeably used with the second sealing member 126). Optionally, the first and the second sealing members 124 and 126 are fabricated from a non-acidic silicone material. Optionally, the first and second sealing members 124 and 126 are Dow Corning PV-804 Neutral Sealant. Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 is arranged in a manner wherein the first-panel exterior surface 104 and interior surface 106, the at least one solar-panel exterior surface 110 and interior surface 112 and the second-panel exterior 116 and interior surface 118 are all substantially parallel to one another. By " parallel " it is meant that the angular error margin in the solar panel arrangement 100 is +/- 10° or less. Optionally, the angular error margin in the solar panel arrangement 100 is +/- 1 ° or less. Optionally, the angular error margin in the solar panel arrangement 100 is +/- 0.1 ° or less.

Optionally, thickness of the solar panel arrangement 100 is within a range of 0.3 mm to 25 mm. Optionally, the first panel 102 has thickness in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, and more preferably in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm. Optionally, the second panel 114 has thickness in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, and more preferably in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm. Optionally, the at least one solar panel 108 has thickness in a range of 0.05 mm to 1 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 has thickness in a range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm. Optionally, the second intermediate optical coupler 122 has thickness in a range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm.

Optionally, the first sealing member 124 and the second sealing member 126 are of 0.02 mm to 5 mm thickness each, namely, the first panel 102 and the second panel 114 are separated by the 0.02 mm to 5 mm thickness of the first and the second sealing members 124 and 126. More preferably, the first sealing member 124 and the second sealing member 126 are of 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm millimeter thickness each, namely, the first panel 102 and the second panel 114 are separated by the 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm thickness of the first and the second sealing members 124 and 126.

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 includes a border located along the edges of the solar panel arrangement 100 that is operable to rigidly hold in position, the at least one solar panel 108 and the first and the second panels 102 and 114. Optionally, the first panel 102 and the second panel 114 extend laterally in one or more dimensions beyond an extent of the solar panel 108, thereby creating a border region next to the solar panel 108. Optionally, the first panel 102, the second panel 114, and the first intermediate optical coupler 120 extend laterally in one or more dimensions beyond an extent of the solar panel 108, thereby creating a border region next to the solar panel 108.

Optionally, the first panel 102, the second panel 114, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 and the second intermediate optical coupler 122 extend laterally in one or more dimensions beyond an extent of the solar panel 108, thereby creating a border region next to the solar panel 108. Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 provides a physical adhesion between the first panel 102 and the second panel 114 in the border region next to the solar panel. Optionally, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 and the second intermediate optical coupler 122 provide a physical adhesion between the first panel 102 and the second panel 114 in the border region next to the solar panel 108. Optionally, the border of the solar panel arrangement 100 is of the dimension 1 mm to 15 mm. More optionally, the border of the solar panel arrangement 100 is of the dimension 5 mm to 10 mm. Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 is implemented as a flexible structure. The solar panel arrangement 100 can be flexed to adhere to a specific structure, such as curved fagade of a building. It will be appreciated that for the solar panel arrangement 100 to be a flexible structure, the first panel 102, the at least one solar panel 108 and the second panel 114 have to be implemented as flexible structures. By "flexible" is meant that the solar panel arrangement 100 may remain operable while flexed. One useful measure of the balance between flexibility and rigidity is flexural rigidity. This is defined as a force couple required to bend a rigid structure to a unit curvature. For a uniform substrate, flexural rigidity can be described mathematically as:

D = Et³ / (12(1— p²))

Where D is the flexural rigidity (in Nm), E is Young's modulus (in Nnrr²), m is Poisson's ratio and t is the thickness of the structure (in m). This equation is described in Rogers & Bogart, J. Mater. Res., Vol. 16, No. 1, January 2001. The more flexible the structure, the lower the flexural rigidity. The flexural rigidity of any structure can be theoretically calculated if Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio and the thickness of the structure are known. However, in practice, especially when dealing with thin films, flexural rigidity may be affected by processing details, lamination of additional layers, non-uniformity across the film and the like.

A preferred approach is to measure the flexural rigidity of the structure. This can be done using the principle of the heavy elastica, as described in W. G. Bickley: The Heavy Elastica, Phil. Mag. Vol. 17 Mar. 1934 p. 603-622. A couple of specific measurement techniques are described in NASA Technical Note D-3270: Techniques for the Measurement of the Flexural Rigidity of Thin Films and Laminates, H. L. Price, April 1966. These are (1) the heart loop method and (2) the cantilever method. The heart loop method is only suitable for very thin films (typically having the thickness of less than 20 microns) with very low flexural rigidity. The cantilever method is preferred and is described in detail in BS 3356: 1990, British Standard Method for Determination of Bending Length and Flexural Rigidity of Fabrics, British Standards Institution© 1999. Further details of flexural rigidity measurement techniques are disclosed in United States Patent US8773013B2 - Three Dimensional OLED Lamps.

Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 may by flexible with a flexural rigidity in a range of 0.1 Nm to 0.000001 Nm. Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 100 may by flexible with the flexural rigidity in the range of 0.01 Nm to 0.00001 Nm. Such a flexible structure is of advantage in that it is less likley to suffer failure when subject to mechanical stress, when compared to an equivalent rigid structure. Such a flexible structure may also be implemented more effectively in applications where curvature of the structure is required.

Referring now to FIGs. 2A-C, there are shown schematic illustrations of cross-sectional views of various solar panel arrangements 200a, 200b and 200c, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, solar panel arrangements 200a, 200b and 200c include the first panel 102, the at least one solar panel 108 and the second panel 114. Optionally, the second panel 114 includes a reflective layer 202 that enables complete reflectance. For example, by "complete reflectance" is meant more than 80% reflectance, more optionally more than 90% reflectance, and yet more optionally more than 95% reflectance. The reflectance can be a measured value that is expressed as a percentage of the total amount of light incident on the second panel 114 and is measured using a specified range of wavelengths of light. Optionally, the specified range of wavelengths of light corresponds to the visible spectrum from 380 nm to 780 nm. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is a metalized layer.

Optionally, reflective layer 202 is a metalized layer arranged within or on a surface of the second panel 114, wherein the reflective layer 202 (such as the metalized layer) provides the second panel 114 with at least partial reflectance. For example, by "partial reflectance" is meant substantially 50% reflectance.

Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is arranged on the second-panel exterior surface 116, as shown, for solar panel arrangement 200a in FIG. 2A, wherein the reflective layer 202 provides the second panel 114 with complete reflectance; "complete" as defined hereinbefore. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is a metalized layer. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 relates to an opaque element affixed to the second- panel exterior surface 116. For example, by "opaque" is meant less than 5% transmittance, more optionally, less than 1% transmittance, and yet more optionally, less than 0.01% transmittance. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 arranged on the second-panel exterior surface 116, is operable to obstruct, partially or completely, the transmittance of light through the second panel 114. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is configured to reflect the light incident on the second-panel exterior surface 116, back towards the solar-panel interior surface 112, subsequently, providing an additional amount of light to be absorbed by the active layer (such as the active layer 138 of FIGs. 1B-D) of the one or more solar cells arranged on the at least one solar panel 108, to produce electrical energy therein.

Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is arranged on the second-panel interior surface 118, as shown for solar panel arrangement 200b in FIG. 2B, wherein the reflective layer 202 provides the second panel 114 with complete reflectance; "complete" as defined hereinbefore. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is a metalized layer. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 relates to an opaque element affixed to the second- panel interior surface 118. For example, by "opaque" is meant less than 5% transmittance, more optionally, less than 1% transmittance, and yet more optionally, less than 0.01% transmittance. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 arranged on the second panel interior surface 118, is operable to obstruct, partially or completely, the transmittance of light through the second panel 114. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is configured to reflect the light incident on the second-panel interior surface 118, back towards the solar-panel interior surface 112, subsequently, providing an additional amount of light to be absorbed by the active layer (such as the active layer 138 of FIG 1B-D) of the one or more solar cells arranged on the at least one solar panel 108, to produce electrical energy therein.

Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is arranged within the bulk of the second panel 114, as shown for solar panel arrangement 200c in FIG. 2C, wherein the reflective layer 202 provides the second panel 114 with complete reflectance; "complete" as defined hereinbefore. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is a metalized layer. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 relates to an opaque element positioned within the bulk of the second panel 114. For example, by "opaque" is meant less than 5% transmittance, more optionally, less than 1% transmittance, and yet more optionally, less than 0.01% transmittance. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 arranged within the bulk of the second panel 114, is operable to obstruct, partially or completely, the transmittance of light through the second panel 114. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 is configured to reflect the light passing within the bulk of the second panel 114, back towards the solar-panel interior surface 112, subsequently, providing an additional amount of light to be absorbed by the active layer (such as the active layer 138 of FIG 1B-D) of the one or more solar cells arranged on the at least one solar panel 108, to produce electrical energy therein. Optionally, solar panel arrangements 200a, 200b or 200c may be implemented as a window pane of a dark chamber in a building. Optionally, solar panel arrangements 200a, 200b or 200c may be implemented as film on a fagade or rooftop of a building or elsewhere. Optionally, the solar panel arrangements 200a, 200b or 200c may be implemented as a flexible device.

Optionally, the reflective layer 202 includes various appropriate shapes and structures that are optionally overlaid onto the second-panel interior surface 118, second-panel exterior surface 116 or within the bulk of the second panel 114. Furthermore, the reflective layer 202 is optionally fabricated from materials selected from a group of: Protected Aluminum, Enhanced Aluminum, UV Enhanced Aluminum, DUV Enhanced Aluminum, Bare Gold, Protected Gold, and Protected Silver. Additionally, the reflective layer 202 is configured to have lesser chance of tarnishing, and to provide a higher reflectance (for example a reflectance of greater than 80%) of the incident light. Additionally, the measured value is expressed as a percentage of the total amount of light incident on the second panel 114 and is measured using a specified range of wavelengths of light. Optionally, the specified range of wavelengths of light corresponds to the visible spectrum from 380 nm to 780 nm.

The first panel 102 of solar panel arrangements 200a, 200b and 200c allows light to transmit therethrough. Optionally, the first panel 102 provides a transmittance greater than 80%. Additionally, the solar panel arrangements 200a, 200b and 200c include at least one solar panel 108 that receives the transmitted light (i.e. first transmitted radiation) from the first panel 102 at the exterior surface 110 of the at least one solar panel. Additionally, at least a portion of the transmitted light from the first panel 102 is absorbed by the active layer (such as the active layer 138 of FIGs. 1B-D) through the exterior surface 110 of the at least one solar panel 108, for generating electrical energy. Optionally, the at least one solar panel 108 includes an array of solar cells. Additionally, a portion of the total amount of light incident on the solar-panel exterior surface 110 is transmitted out from the at least one solar panel 108, through the solar-panel interior surface 112. This transmitted light (i.e. second transmitted radiation) is received at the exterior surface 116 of the second panel 114. Additionally, the second panel 114 is operable to reflect substantially all of the light incident on the second panel back towards the solar-panel interior surface 112 as a first reflected radiation. At least a portion of the first reflected radiation is absorbed by the active layer of the at least one solar panel 108 through the solar-panel interior surface 112 for generating electrical energy.

In FIG. 3, there is shown an illustration of a schematic top view of a solar panel arrangement 300, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The solar panel arrangement 300 is generally similar to the solar panel arrangements 100, 200a, 200b and/or 200c. For example, the solar panel arrangement 300 includes the first panel 102 with exterior surface 104 and interior surface 106 and the second panel 114 with exterior surface 116 and interior surface 118 (not shown). The solar panel arrangement 300 includes a plurality of solar panels, such as solar panels 310, 312, 314 and 316, each with exterior surface 110 and interior surface 112. The solar panels 310, 312, 314 and 316 are arranged between the first panel 102 and the second panel 114, particularly the solar panels 310, 312, 314, 316 are positioned in the same plane. Optionally, "same plane" means the exterior surface 110 of each of the solar panels 310, 312, 314 and 316 are aligned in a plane to within +/- 10 mm or less, or more optionally to within +/- 5 mm or less, or more optionally to within +/- 1 mm or less. Optionally, "same plane" means the interior surface 112 of each of the solar panels 310, 312, 314 and 316 are aligned in a plane to within +/- 10 mm or less, or more optionally to within +/- 5 mm or less, or more optionally to within +/- 1 mm or less. Optionally, the solar panels 310, 312, 314 and 316 may be arranged in close proximity, but with a small gap therebetween. For example a gap having a width in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm. Optionally, solar panels 310, 312, 314 and 316 may be spaced with a larger gap inbetween. For example a gap having a width in a range of 10 mm to 200 mm.

The solar panel arrangement 300 may optionally include additional elements, such as first and second intermediate optical couplers (not shown), and first and second sealing members (not shown). Optionally, the solar panel arrangement 300 may include a reflective layer, which may be arranged on a surface of, or within the second panel. It may be appreciated that, in use, the solar panel arrangement 300 may have several advantages over equivalent solar panel arrangements having only a single solar panel. The gaps inbetween the solar panels can be used to increase the adhesion between the first panel 102 and second panel 114, optionally using a first or second intermediate optical coupler to affix the solar panels between first and second panels. This is of particular importance for larger solar panel arrangements. The use of multiple solar panels also allows for the area to be utilized more efficiently, particularly for irregular shaped solar panel arrangements. This in turn increases the energy that can be generated from the solar panel arrangement.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown an illustration of a ray diagram depicting a solar panel arrangement, such as the solar panel arrangement 200b of FIG. 2B in a utilized state, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, in the utilized state, the first-panel exterior surface 104 faces light (sunlight) 400. In other words, the first-panel exterior surface 104 is arranged to receive the light 400. As aforementioned, the first panel 102 includes a high first transmittance (for example, a transmittance greater than 80%), therefore the sunlight 400 gets substantially transmitted through the first panel 102. That is to say, the sunlight 400 passes through the first-panel interior surface 106. The transmitted sunlight 400 strikes (namely, is received at) the first intermediate optical coupler 120 and gets substantially transmitted therethrough, to strike the exterior surface 110 of the at least one solar panel 108. By "substantially transmitted" is meant transmittance in a range of 80% to 100%, more optionally in a range of 90% to 100%, or even more optionally in the range of 95% to 100%. As aforementioned the first intermediate optical coupler has high transmittance, and the first panel 102, the first intermediate optical coupler 120 and the substrate of the at least one solar panel 108 have a mutually similar refractive index (wherein "mutually similar refractive index" is defined hereinbefore). The light may therefore pass between from the first panel 102 to the at least one solar panel 108 with minimal optical loss.

The sunlight 400 striking (namely, received at) the solar-panel exterior surface 110 gets partially absorbed and partially transmitted by the at least one solar panel 108. The sunlight absorbed by the active layer (such as the active layer 138 of FIGs 1B-D) of the one or more solar cells of the at least one solar panel 108 is used for energy generation. The transmitted sunlight 400 from the solar-panel interior surface 112 strikes (namely, is received at) the second intermediate optical coupler 122. The sunlight 400 striking (namely, being received at) the second intermediate optical coupler 122 gets substantially transmitted therethrough and strikes the second-panel exterior surface 116. By "substantially transmitted" is meant transmittance in a range of 80% to 100%, more optionally in a range of 90% to 100%, or even more optionally in the range of 95% to 100%. As aforementioned the second intermediate optical coupler has high transmittance, and the first panel 102, the second intermediate optical coupler 120 and the substrate of the at least one solar panel 108 have a mutually similar refractive index (wherein "mutually similar refractive index" is defined hereinbefore). The light may therefore pass between from the at least one solar panel 108 to the at least one second panel 114 with minimal optical loss.

As aforementioned, the second panel 114 may optionally provide a third transmittance. For example, a third transmittance optionally in the range of 0% to 80%, or more optionally in the range of 10% to 70%, or more optionally in the range of 30% to 50%. Optionally, the reflective layer 202 may be used to control the proportion of light transmitted through the second panel 114 as a third transmitted radiation. The reflective layer 202 is positioned at the interior surface 118 of the second panel 114. Optionally, a reflective layer could instead be positioned at the exterior surface 116 of the second panel 114, as depicted in solar panel arrangement 202a. Optionally, the second panel 114 may provide complete reflectance. Optionally, a reflective layer could instead be positioned within the bulk of the second panel 114, as depicted in solar panel arrangement 202c.

Optionally, the reflective layer 202 relates to an opaque element. For example, by "opaque" is meant less than 5% transmittance, more optionally, less than 1% transmittance, and yet more optionally, less than 0.01% transmittance.

Optionally, the second panel 114 may provide complete reflectance. For example, a reflectance optionally greater than 80%, more optionally greater than 90%, or more optionally greater than 95%. Therefore the second panel 114 either allows sunlight 400 striking the second panel to be partially transmitted through the second-panel interior surface 118 (light path shown with arrow A), partially reflected from the second-panel interior surface (light path shown with arrows A and B), or completely reflected from the second-panel interior surface (light path shown with arrow B). Optionally, the reflective layer 202 may be used to control the proportion of light reflected back from the second panel 114 as the first reflected radiation.

Optionally, sunlight 400 reflected back from second panel 114 as the first reflected radiation passes again through the second intermediate optical coupler 122 and strikes (namely, is received at) the solar-panel interior surface 112. This allows the reflected sunlight 400 to again pass through the active layer (such as the active layer 138 of FIGs. 1B- D) of the at least one solar panel 108 where it is at least partially absorbed . The reflected sunlight 400 accordingly allows the at least one solar panel 108 to harvest further electrical energy from the reflected sunlight 400. Therefore, an overall electrical energy generation capability of the solar panel arrangement 200a, 200b and 200c is increased . According to an embodiment, the solar panel arrangement is operable to be electrically coupled to an electrical energy storage element. FIG. 4 shows one embodiment where the solar panel arrangement 200b is electrically coupled to electrical storage element 410. The solar panel arrangement 200b is used here by way of example, but it should be understood that other solar panel arrangements, such as the solar panel arrangements 100, 200a, 200c, 300 and others may also be optionally connected to an electrical storage element, such as the electrical storage element 410. Optionally, the electrical storage element 410 may be a rechargeable battery unit, for harvesting generated electrical energy from the solar panel arrangement. Specifically, the electrical energy generated by the at least one solar panel 108 from the light may be stored in the electrical energy storage element 410. Accordingly, the stored electrical energy from the electrical energy storage element 410 can be used for various household applications, industrial applications or otherwise. Additionally, the electrical energy storage element 410 includes one of a sealed Lead acid battery, a supercapacitor, a Lithium-ion battery, a Lithium-Iron polymer battery, a Nickel-Iron battery, Sodium-Sulphur battery, a Silicon-alkaline battery, a Nickel-Cadmium battery, a Nickel- metal hydride battery and so forth.

According to one embodiment, the solar panel arrangements (i.e. solar panel arrangements 100, 200a, 200b, 200c and/or 300) of the present disclosure are operable to be used as window faces or window panels. In such an example implementation, the second panel (such as the second panel 114) of the solar panel arrangement optionally provides a partial third transmittance and not complete reflectance. According to another embodiment, the solar panel arrangements of the present disclosure are configured to be used on opaque rooftops or walls. In such instances, the second panel of the solar panel arrangements may optionally provide complete reflectance (for example more than 80% reflectance, optionally more than 90% reflectance, more optionally, more than 95% reflectance) and not allow transmittance of light therethrough.

FIG. 5A shows a table 500a depicting enhanced power efficiency of a working example of the solar panel arrangement of the present disclosure, as compared to conventional solar panel arrangements, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. A series of eight solar panel samples were prepared. Solar panel sample number is given in column 1 of table 500a. All solar panel samples were prepared using an identical organic photovoltaic device.

FIG. 5B shows a cross-section of a solar panel arrangement 500b of the working example, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the solar panel arrangement 500b includes a solar panel 500c (shown in FIG. 5C) that is implemented using an organic photovoltaic device. The solar panel arrangement 500b includes: a first panel 102 comprising Cebrace Extra Clear® low-iron glass of thickness 6 mm and transmittance 95%, with a first-panel exterior surface 104 and a first-panel interior surface 106; a second panel 114 comprising Cebrace Cool Lite STB136® low-iron glass of thickness 4 mm and transmittance 35%, with a second-panel exterior surface 116 and a second-panel interior surface 118 where a semi transparent and partially reflective metalized layer 202 is positioned on the interior surface 118 of the second panel 114; a solar panel 500c with an exterior surface 110 and an interior surface 112 comprising a layer architecture of the organic photovoltaic device described above (shown in detail in FIG. 5C); a first optical coupler 120 and a second optical coupler 122, each of thickness 0.8 mm and comprising DuPont SentryGlas® material; and a first sealing member 124 and second sealing member 126 each comprising Dow Corning PV-804 Neutral Sealant material. The solar panel 500c was orientated such that a substrate thereof (such as the substrate 502 shown in FIG. 5C) was positioned nearest to the first panel 102, and the second electrode 512 was positioned nearest to the second panel 114.

FIG. 5C shows a layer architecture of the solar panel 500c implemented using the organic photovoltaic device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The solar panel 500c includes: a substrate layer 502 fabricated using a PET material; a semi transparent first electrode 504 comprising a multilayer stack of a silver layer sandwiched between two layers of ITO that functions as a cathode; a first transport layer 506 comprising a PEI derivative that functions as an electron transport layer (ETL); an active layer 508 comprising a blend of polymer donor in combination with a fullerene acceptor; a second transport layer 510 comprising a PEDOT: PSS derivative that functions as a hole transport layer (HTL); a semi transparent second electrode 512 comprising a silver grid disposed onto, and in contact with a layer of a PEDOT: PSS derivative; a first adhesive layer 516 and a second adhesive layer 522, both comprising a UV-curable epoxy resin; and a first barrier film 518 and a second barrier film 524, both comprising a PET material coated with a multilayer stack of organic and inorganic layers. Furthermore, the first adhesive layer 516 and the first barrier film 518 form a first encapsulation film 514; and the second adhesive layer 522 and the first barrier film 518 form a first encapsulation film 520.

FIG. 5D shows a plan view of a layout of solar cells on each solar panel 500c of FIG. 5B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, each solar panel 500c comprises six solar cells connected in series. Each cell of the six solar cells is of dimension 3.0cm x 1.2cm with an area of 3.6 cm², wherein an active area of the solar panel is defined by an overlap of the first electrode 504 and the second electrode 512 for each cell. The total active area of each solar panel is therefore 6 cm x 3.6 cm, or 21.6 cm².

FIG. 5D also shows the silver grid used in an upper layer of the second electrode 512 of FIG. 5C, and bus bars 530, 532 of tin-coated copper foil placed in contact with each electrode of the solar panel, to collect charge from the solar panels, such as, for measuring a power efficiency thereof (as shown in FIG. 5A).

After fabrication of the solar panel, the power efficiency of each of the eight solar panel samples was tested under an illumination of 1000 W/m² at standard solar spectrum AM1.5G using a AAA WACOM solar simulator. The power efficiency of each sample is listed in Column 2 of the table 500a of FIG. 5A. This represents the reference power efficiency of a conventional solar panel arrangement.

After measurement, the same eight solar panel samples were laminated between a first panel and a second panel, as shown by the cross- sectional view 500b of the solar panel arrangement in FIG. 5B (and by a plan view of a solar panel arrangement 500d in FIG. 5E).

FIG. 5E shows a plan view of a solar panel arrangement 500d comprising multiple solar panels, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, each of the four solar panels 500c were laminated between first panel 102 and second panel 114 (shown in FIG. 5B). Therefore, to prepare eight solar panel samples for testing, two sets of lamination were required. FIG. 5E shows that the solar panels 500c were arranged with a spacing of 20 mm between each panel, and a border region with a width of 30 mm surrounding the outer edges of each panel. In these border regions surrounding and in between the solar panels 108, the first optical coupler 120 and second optical coupler 122 can effectively affix the solar panels 500c, the first panel 102 and the second panel 114 in position. After lamination, the power efficiency of each of the eight solar panel samples was determined under an illumination of 1000 W/m² at standard solar spectrum AM1.5G using a AAA WACOM solar simulator. The power efficiency of each sample is listed in Column 3 of table 500a. This data represents the power efficiency of a solar power arrangement of this present disclosure. Column 4 of the table 500a shows a comparison between the power efficiencies of the eight solar panel samples with the power efficiencies of the conventional solar panel arrangement as mentioned herein above. As shown, for every sample, the power efficiency is enhanced by arranging each solar panel in solar panel arrangement 500b, with an average efficiency enhancement per solar panel being 12% across the eight solar panel samples. The enhancement in power efficiency is attributed to light that originally passed through the active layer 508 of the solar panel 500c (shown in FIG. 5C) being reflected back from the second panel 114 towards the active layer 508 of the solar panel, where it is absorbed, enabling additional electrical energy generation. In this working example, the transmittance of the second panel 114 is 35%. Greater efficiency enhancement is expected if a less transparent and more reflective second panel were used, thereby enabling a greater reflection of light back from the second panel 114 towards the active layer 508. Furthermore, the solar panel arrangement of this working example is expected to extend a lifetime of the solar panels by preventing ingress of water from the external environment around the solar panel arrangement. The solar panel arrangement of the present disclosure provides an arrangement with improved efficiency when converting sunlight received thereat into corresponding electrical energy. The solar panel arrangement is operable (namely, configured) to reflect a transmitted portion of the light that passes through the at least one solar panel, back to the at least one solar panel. Subsequently, the at least one solar panel is operable to generate the additional amount of electrical energy from the reflected light. Beneficially, such generation of an additional amount of electrical energy provides an increased efficiency of the solar panel arrangement. Furthermore, the solar panel arrangement encloses the at least one solar panel within the first panel and the second panel. Subsequently, such enclosure provides a protective covering for the at least one solar panel against the ingress of water. Beneficially, the protective covering provides extended lifetime of the at least one solar panel. Additionally, the solar panel arrangement may be retrofitted into building window fagades. Beneficially, retrofitting of the solar panel arrangement on the window fagades is operable to enhance the visual appearance of the building by matching the transmittance or colour of the solar panel arrangement to the remainder of the window fagade. Furthermore, the solar panel arrangement arranged as window fagades of a building is operable to absorb the light and thereby restrict the heating of an internal environment of the building.

Modifications to embodiments of the invention described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "consisting of", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present invention are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural. Numerals included within parentheses in the accompanying claims are intended to assist understanding of the claims and should not be construed in any way to limit subject matter claimed by these claims.

Claims

1. A solar panel arrangement, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement includes:

- a first panel having a first-panel exterior surface that is configured to receive light and a first-panel interior surface opposite to the first-panel exterior surface, wherein the first panel is configured to transmit at least a portion of the lig ht received at the first-panel exterior surface through the first-panel interior surface accord ing to a first transmittance to provide a first transmitted radiation; and

- at least one solar panel having a solar-panel exterior surface that is optically coupled to the first-panel interior surface, a solar- panel interior surface that is opposite to the solar-panel exterior surface, and an active layer d isposed between the solar-panel exterior surface and the solar-panel interior surface, wherein the at least one solar panel is configured to receive a first transmitted rad iation at the solar-panel exterior surface and to transmit a portion of the first transmitted radiation throug h the active layer and then through the solar-panel interior surface accord ing to a second transmittance to provide a second transmitted radiation; and

- a second panel having a second-panel exterior surface that is optically coupled to the solar-panel interior surface, and a second- panel interior surface that is opposite to the second-panel exterior surface, wherein the second panel is configured to receive the second transmitted radiation and to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation according to a first reflectance to provide a first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second - panel interior surface according to a third transmittance to provide a third transmitted radiation; wherein:

- at least a portion of the first transmitted radiation is absorbed by the active layer of the least one solar panel through the solar- panel exterior surface for generating electrical energy; and

- at least a portion of the first reflected radiation is absorbed by the active layer of the at least one solar panel through the solar- panel interior surface for generating electrical energy.

2. A solar panel arrangement of claim 1, characterised in that the second-panel is configured to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation at the second-panel exterior surface according to the first reflectance to provide the first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second-panel interior surface according to the third transmittance to provide the third transmitted radiation.

3. A solar panel arrangement of claim 1, characterised in that the second panel is configured to reflect at least a portion of the second transmitted radiation at the second-panel exterior surface according to the first reflectance to provide the first reflected radiation, and to transmit a remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation through the second-panel interior surface according to the third transmittance to provide the third transmitted radiation.

4. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the third transmitted radiation through the second panel is substantially zero, and the second panel provides substantially complete reflectance of the second transmitted radiation.

5. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the third transmitted radiation is less than 5% of the remaining portion of the second transmitted radiation.

6. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement includes a metalized layer arranged within or on a surface of the second panel, wherein the metalized layer provides the second panel with at least partial reflectance.

7. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first-panel exterior surface and interior surface, the solar-panel exterior surface and interior surface, and the second-panel exterior and interior surface are all parallel to one another.

8. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first and second panels are fabricated from at least one of: a glass, a plastics material, or a combination thereof.

9. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first transmittance of the first panel is in a range of 80% to 100%.

10. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the second transmittance of the at least one solar panel is in a range of 10% to 50%.

11. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the third transmittance of the second panel is in a range of 0% to 80%.

12. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement further includes:

- a first intermediate optical coupler positioned between the first- panel interior surface and the solar-panel exterior surface; and - a second intermediate optical coupler positioned between the solar-panel interior surface and the second-panel exterior surface.

13. A solar panel arrangement of claim 12, characterised in that the first and second intermediate optical couplers are fabricated from at least one of: an ethylene vinyl acetate-type material, a polyvinyl butyral-type material, an ionoplast material, or a combination thereof.

14. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one solar panel is one of: an organic photovoltaic solar panel, a perovskite solar panel, a thin film photovoltaic panel or a combination thereof.

15. A solar panel arrangement of claim 14, characterised in that the at least one solar panel includes at least one substrate layer; at least two electrodes for providing an electrical output from the at least one solar panel and at least one active layer for converting light transmitted to the at least one solar panel into electrical output.

16. A solar panel arrangement of claim 15, characterised in that the at least one solar panel further includes an at least one transport layer.

17. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the claims 15 or 16, characterised in that the transmittance of the active layer is in the range of 10% to 60%.

18. A solar panel arrangement of claim 15, characterised in that the at least one solar panel further includes an at least one first encapsulation film, wherein the at least one first encapsulation film is positioned such that the at least two electrodes and the at least one active layer are enclosed between the at least one first encapsulation film and the at least one substrate layer.

19. A solar panel arrangement of claim 18, characterised in that the at least one solar panel further includes an at least one second encapsulation film, wherein the second encapsulation film is positioned such that the at least one substrate layer, the at least two electrodes and the at least one active layer are enclosed between the at least one first encapsulation film and the at least one second encapsulation film.

20. A solar panel arrangement of claim 15, characterised in that the first panel, the second panel, the first intermediate optical coupler, the second intermediate optical coupler and the at least one substrate layer all have a mutually similar refractive index.

21. A solar panel arrangement of claim 19, characterised in that the first panel, the second panel, the first intermediate optical coupler, the second intermediate optical coupler, the at least one substrate layer, the at least one first encapsulation film and the at least one second encapsulation film all have a mutually similar refractive index.

22. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the claims 20 or 21, characterised in that the mutually similar refractive indexes are in a range of 1.40 - 1.60, and more preferably in the range of 1.45 - 1.55, and even more preferably in the range of 1.49 - 1.51.

23. A solar panel arrangement of claim 12, characterised in that the first intermediate optical coupler is in contact with the first-panel interior surface and the solar-panel exterior surface, and the second intermediate optical coupler is in contact with the second -panel exterior surface and the solar-panel interior surface.

24. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the claims 12 to 23, characterised in that the first panel has thickness in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, and more preferably thickness in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm, the second panel has thickness in a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, and more preferably thickness in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm, the solar panel has thickness in a range of 0.05 mm to 1 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, the first intermediate optical coupler has thickness in a range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, and the second intermediate optical coupler has thickness in a range of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm.

25. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the claims 12 to 24, characterised in that the first panel, the second panel, the first intermediate optical coupler and the second intermediate optical coupler extend laterally in one or more dimensions beyond an extent of the solar panel, thereby creating a border region next to the solar panel.

26. A solar panel arrangement of claim 25, characterised in that the first intermediate optical coupler and the second intermediate optical coupler provide a physical adhesion between the first panel and the second panel in the border region next to the solar panel.

27. A solar panel arrangement of any one of the claims 12 to 26, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement further includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member, wherein the first and second sealing members are positioned along lateral edges of the first and second intermediate optical couplers.

28. A solar panel arrangement of claim 27, characterised in that the first and second sealing members are fabricated from a non-acidic silicone material.

29. A solar panel arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement is configured to be electrically connectable to an electrical energy storage element for harvesting electrical energy generated by the solar panel arrangement.

30. A solar panel arrangement of claim 29, characterised in that the electrical energy storage element includes a rechargeable battery selected from a group of a sealed lead acid battery, a supercapacitor, a Lithium-ion battery, a Lithium-Iron polymer battery, a Nickel-iron battery, Sodium-Sulphur battery, a Silicon-alkaline battery, a Nickel- cadmium battery and Nickel-metal hydride battery.

31. A solar panel arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement is configured to be rooftop-mounted or wall-mounted.

32. A solar panel arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement is configured to be used as a window pane.

33. A solar panel arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the solar panel arrangement is a flexible structure.

34. A solar panel arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one solar panel includes a plurality of solar cells.