The innovation
The big picture
The players
How it works
Why it matters
Next steps
August 17, 2022
Made in the shade!
Photo Credit: SolarGaps
Innovation will be key to accelerating the clean energy transition and reaching a net zero economy. Edison Energy is following the latest innovations in decarbonization across technologies, projects, and programs, from conception through completion.
The innovation
SolarGaps smart blinds
The big picture
The SolarGaps system reduces carbon footprint and lowers energy costs.
The players
SolarGaps, a tech startup headquartered in San Francisco.
SolarGaps CEO Yevgen Erik describes the inspiration behind the technology: “The idea to combine solar panels and blinds struck me when I saw sunflowers in the field turning to face the sun. With my invention, I wanted to claim that everyone is responsible for saving our planet.”
How it works
SolarGaps are the first smart external blinds with photovoltaic panels that automatically track the sun and generate solar energy while keeping interior spaces cool. The technology’s two main features – photovoltaic energy generation and smart shading – are combined to achieve significant energy cost savings.
The SolarGaps system, which consists of solar panels connected by a durable steel cable or rigid guides to ensure secure attachment, is plugged into a power outlet, with an inverter converting solar power into electricity that can be used to charge devices and appliances or stored in a battery for later use.
Bonus: The blinds come in a variety of colors – Anthracite, Grey Metallic, White, Beige, and Brown!
Why it matters
The SolarGaps system helps produce renewable energy to power main office operations. It also blocks heat from entering through windows, increasing energy efficiency by reducing air conditioning usage; provides energy bill cost savings of up to 30 percent; and helps commercial properties obtain green building certifications like LEED and BREEAM.
Next steps
SolarGaps is pioneering a method of energy distribution to help power the offices, homes, and cities of the future. By exploring innovative concepts and adopting new technologies, SolarGaps hopes to help cities move closer to their Net Zero goals. It is the company’s vision that one day, “homes will not be connected to the grid, but rather the grid will be connected to homes.”
Stay tuned for the next installment of the Energy Edge Innovation Series!
