Solar shading

High energy prices: how to save money smartly with solar-powered window shades

Share this article

Energy prices keep rising, and you’re feeling the impact more than ever. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are putting pressure on energy markets. Not only oil prices, but also the cost of electricity and gas are skyrocketing these days.

So it makes sense that you’re looking for ways to reduce your energy consumption. Maybe you’ve already started comparing energy providers, are unsure about a fixed-term energy contract, or are actively looking for ways to cut down on your electricity use. But did you know that solar-powered solar shading can also make a surprisingly big difference?

In this blog, you’ll discover how smart solutions like roller shutters and solar-powered outdoor sun protection not only help you save money but also invest in sustainable living comfort.

Energieverslindende airco

Saving energy starts with using less

When electricity prices rise, one question becomes increasingly important: how can you save electricity without sacrificing comfort? Many solutions focus on generating energy, such as solar panels or storing solar energy in a home battery. But limiting your energy consumption is just as important. And that’s where window coverings play a crucial role.

Sunlight entering through your windows quickly heats up your home. Without sun protection, you have to actively cool that heat away, for example with air conditioning. This leads to higher electricity consumption and, consequently, a higher energy bill.

With exterior sun protection or shades on the outside of your windows, you tackle the problem at the source. You block the sun before it enters your home. This keeps it pleasantly cool inside, even on hot days. Less need for cooling automatically means lower energy consumption.

 

Solar-powered window shades: a smart way to cope with rising energy prices

Solar-powered sun protection is one of the most efficient ways to significantly reduce your energy consumption today. It combines multiple benefits into a single solution.

In the summer, solar-powered sun protection such as solar-powered screens—keeps your home up to 10°C cooler. This means you need to use less cooling, which immediately makes a difference in your electricity consumption. In the winter, roller shutters act as insulation. They keep heat inside, so you need to heat less.

But the biggest advantage lies in how it works. Solar-powered sun protection doesn’t use electricity from the grid. Energy from the sun is captured via a solar panel and stored in a battery. This allows your sun protection to operate completely autonomously. In practical terms, this means: you pay nothing for its use, you’re less dependent on rising energy prices, and you reduce your total energy consumption.

Solar energy, without compromise

A question many people ask: Do solar-powered sunshades work even when the sun isn’t shining? The answer is yes.

Harol’s systems are equipped with powerful batteries that store solar energy. Even on cloudy days or during the winter, you have enough capacity to operate your awnings or roller shutters for up to 30 days. That makes this solution exceptionally reliable and well-suited to our Belgian climate.

Moreover, installation is simpler than with traditional electric sun protection. Since no connection to the power grid is required, you avoid any demolition work. This makes solar-powered sun protection an attractive option when comparing its price to traditional systems.

Smart energy management through automation

In an era where energy conservation is a top priority, smart control systems are becoming increasingly important. Solar-powered solar shading can be seamlessly integrated with sensors. Consider systems that automatically respond to sunlight. When the sun is shining brightly, your shades lower automatically. This keeps your home cool without you having to think about it.

The result? Lower energy consumption, greater comfort, and a home that automatically adapts to the conditions.

 

The solar solutions from Harol: tailored to your home

Coolscreen 8 Solar

Harol offers a wide range of solutions that respond to today’s energy challenges. Each product combines design, sustainability, and energy efficiency.

The Coolscreen 8 Solar is an ideal choice if you’re looking for solar-powered screens for your windows that combine comfort and energy efficiency. This vertical sun shading system operates entirely on solar energy and keeps your home naturally cool, without any additional electricity consumption. Thanks to its powerful 2.2 Ah battery, the system can continue to function for up to 30 days, even with limited sunlight. Moreover, the screen is suitable for surfaces up to 12 m², making it perfect for both large and standard window areas.

What truly sets this sun shading solution apart is its innovative ZIP system, which ensures a tightly stretched fabric. This makes the Coolscreen 8 Solar not only wind-resistant (up to wind class 3), but also effective at keeping insects out—ideal for maintaining a comfortable indoor climate. The quick exterior installation makes this solution particularly suitable for renovation projects and passive buildings. With over 300 color options and a wide selection of fabrics, you’re choosing a durable sun shading solution that perfectly matches both the style and energy performance of your home.

Veranda awning powered by solar energy

VZ080-ZIP Solar

The VZ080-ZIP Solar has been specially developed for glass surfaces such as verandas and skylights, where overheating can occur quickly. By blocking the sun before it reaches the glass, the temperature remains under control and you can enjoy a pleasant indoor climate all year round. This veranda shading system operates entirely on solar energy and functions autonomously, so no additional energy is required.

Thanks to the sleek ZIP system, the fabric fits perfectly, ensuring maximum blackout and efficient heat protection. The VZ080-ZIP Solar is suitable for surfaces up to 5 m² and offers flexible installation options, such as top-down or bottom-up. This allows you to fully adapt the shading to your specific needs, with a solution that is both well thought-out and sustainable.

 

VR150_Solar_Harol
Solar-powered roller shutters

VR150 Solar, VR200 Solar

The VR150 Solar is the ideal choice for standard windows if you’re looking for a compact and efficient surface-mounted roller shutter. This model is suitable for surfaces up to 6 m² and combines sun shading with insulation in a slim housing that also fits neatly within the window reveal. Thanks to obstacle and frost detection, you benefit from added safety and durability in use. An accessible solution for those who want to save smartly—and yes, of course, fully solar-powered.

The VR200 Solar takes it a step further and is specifically designed for large windows and doors. With coverage up to 13 m², this roller shutter offers significantly greater reach and robustness. The extra-strong, double-walled aluminum slats not only provide improved insulation but also enhance burglary resistance. Ideal when you want to protect larger glass surfaces to the fullest, powered by the same smart energy source: the sun.

 

OB600_700_Harol

OB600 Solar, OB700 Solar, IB Solar

For renovation or new construction, the OB600 Solar and OB700 Solar built-on roller shutters are particularly interesting. They integrate seamlessly into your façade, providing a sleek finish while also contributing to better insulation and lower energy consumption. The OB700 Solar stands out aesthetically as it is completely concealed.

Looking for maximum integration and a minimalist look? The IB Solar is the perfect solution. This built-in roller shutter is fully incorporated into your façade and delivers optimal performance in terms of insulation, comfort, and durability.

Choose energy security today for tomorrow

The reality is clear: energy prices will continue to fluctuate. Whatever you choose, every step toward independence counts. With solar-powered sun shading, you’re opting for a solution that already makes an impact today. You reduce your electricity consumption, protect your home from heat and cold, and make use of free energy from the sun—a true win-win!

In addition, you benefit from several extra advantages that make this solution even more appealing:

  • Reliable operation, even on cloudy days or in winter
  • Up to 30 days of autonomy thanks to smart solar energy storage
  • No dependence on the electricity grid
  • Easier installation compared to traditional electric systems
BX270_HR
Folding arm awnings

A folding arm awning is the ideal horizontal sun protection, creating a lower indoor temperature and pleasant shade on your terrace.

Read more
Coolscreen_Solar_Harol
Screens

Harol has the biggest range of sun protection screens for windows. Choose vertical sun protection and make the energy-efficient choice for your home.

Read more
Outside venetian blinds

Outside venetian blinds are the perfect sun protection for your windows. Create shade, privacy and keep the heat outside. Always made-to-measure.

Read more
Veranda or conservatory awnings

Veranda sun canopies block the sun coming through your skylight, rooflight or veranda. Also supplied using solar power.

Read more
Wind_Zonnescherm_Harol
Wind screen

This side screen protects you from sun and wind in the most challenging areas of your terrace.

Read more
US710_Harol
Pivot arm awnings

A pivot arm awning is the ideal shade provider for windows and balconies. The sunlight is effectively blocked by the screen, with its steep downwards angle.

Read more

Read more on this

See all blog articles