ClearVue Technologies has joined a landmark $20 million research project led by RMIT University to advance the development of energy-efficient, solar-powered greenhouses aimed at transforming food production and sustainability in Australia.
The five-year initiative, known as the ARC Research Hub for Intelligent Energy Efficiency in Future Protected Cropping, is backed by a $5 million contribution from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and supported by 16 partners across research and industry.
According to ClearVue, the hub seeks to develop greenhouses that generate their own power, improve crop yields, and reduce water and energy usage.
ClearVue’s solar glass technology will play a key role in the project. The company’s innovative transparent solar glazing allows natural light to pass through while simultaneously generating electricity, offering a sustainable solution for high-tech agriculture.
The technology was first demonstrated at Murdoch University’s solar greenhouse, which has been operational since 2021 and has recorded up to 40% energy savings, improved water efficiency, and increased yields across multiple growing seasons.
“We are excited to support this important work being led by RMIT through the ARC Hub,” said Martin Deil, Global CEO of ClearVue. “Our unique technology will contribute meaningfully by generating electricity and using advanced spectral control to enhance crop yields, improve quality, and promote sustainability by reducing energy and water consumption.”
The Murdoch University pilot provided evidence of how solar-integrated glass can improve agricultural performance without sacrificing crop productivity. ClearVue said the project demonstrated “spectacular results,” particularly in the solar grow rooms, where spectral control improved conditions for plant growth.
According to ClearVue, the timing aligns with rapid global growth in the agrivoltaics market, which merges agriculture and solar energy. Valued at $4.44 billion in 2024, the market is forecast to grow by more than 10% annually, potentially reaching over $9.6 billion by 2032.
The research consortium includes leading Australian universities such as RMIT, the Australian National University, the University of New South Wales, and Western Sydney University, as well as partners like South East Water Corporation, Advanced Carbon Engineering, and Protected Cropping Australia.
“Greenhouses are vital infrastructure for food security and climate resilience,” said Professor Gary Rosengarten of RMIT. “By harnessing the combined expertise of our research and industry partners, RMIT is excited to be working on world leading technology like ClearVue’s solar glazing to develop cutting-edge greenhouse solutions.”
The research officially commenced on 1 July, with a formal launch event planned for November. The project aligns with national priorities on renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, positioning Australia at the forefront of green food production.
“We believe Australia has an opportunity to position itself as a global leader in food security innovation, and that ClearVue should be at the forefront of this global discussion,” said Deil.
