Assessing the Potential of Smart Windows for Energy Efficiency in Tropical Buildings: A Review of Current Research and Future Directions

Smart windows have energy-saving potential in buildings in tropical climates. Characterized by high solar radiation, humidity, and temperature, tropical climates demand innovative solutions for energy-efficient building design. Smart windows, which can regulate the transmission of light and heat through different thermochromic, photochromic, or electrochromic technologies, are promising to reduce energy consumption in such buildings. Several emerging window technologies, such as gasochromic, hydrochromic, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, and suspended particle device technologies, also have promising energy-saving potential. However, their high initial costs, durability, and reliability of these technologies limit their applicability. Prospects for smart windows in buildings in tropical climates include advancements in materials science, cost reduction, and integration of smart window technology with other building systems, such as lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. The potential benefits of smart windows for energy-saving s in buildings in tropical climates are substantial, up to 37. Thus, further research and development in this area would lead to significant advancements in sustainable building design for a better future.