He has worked with Dyesol, a Canberra-based company, trying to develop affordable transparent solar cells that act as both windows and energy generators in houses or commercial buildings.

According to John Bell the transparent solar cells will have a “faint reddish hue” and be “completely see-through.” They will also reduce carbon emissions by 50% and make “a significant difference to home and building owners’ energy costs.”

John Bell even says the house owners would be able to generate excess energy that could be sold or stored for later use.

The solar cells contain titanium dioxide coated in a dye that increases light absorption.

The glass captures solar energy which can be used to power the house but can also reduce overheating of the house, reducing the need for cooling.

He said that the solar-powered glass would be on the market in “a few years”.