Abstract: The present invention relates to multi-cell regenerative photovoltaic photoelectrochemical (RPEC) devices. The invention describes the structure of a multi-cell RPEC device where conductive interconnects are formed by a matrix mounting conductive particles, formed between extended portions of opposed planar conductive members.

Abstract: Methods of forming metal alkoxides and methods of forming precursor solutions of metal alkoxides suitable for the coating of glass in the manufacture of electrochromic devices are disclosed. The method of forming metal alkoxides involves dissolving the metal halide in an anhydrous solvent and reacting it with an alcohol and (together with the addition of the alcohol or subsequently) adding an epoxide, and then evaporating-off the volatile components of the reaction product to leave a solid metal alkoxide that is substantially free of halide. The alkoxide may then be dissolved in a solvent including an alcohol (preferably ethanol) containing a small proportion of water to produce a precursor solution suitable for coating glass, the coating then being hydrolyzed to form a sol-gel and then baked to remove volatile components and to yield a thin layer of metal oxide.

Abstract: A smart window comprising a regenerative photolectrochomic (RPEC) photovoltaic element (108) juxtaposed with an electrochromic (EC) element (110). Microprocessor-based control mechanism (200) connecting the RPEC element to the EC element for controlling the current delivered to and from the EC element. The controller (200) including look-up tables (204 and 206) for determining the safe current to or from the EC element having regard to the amount of charge to be delivered or removed and the charge status of the EC element, the determination of charge status, charge still required and current to be delivered being made frequently to ensure that the current is kept within safe limits while minimizing switching times. New smart windows are also disclosed.