Solar sliding shutter could power residential buildings

• SolarSlide, a solar sliding shutter, is available in eight standard colours and custom shades
• The electricity generated can be used directly, stored or fed into the grid
• Plans for UK rollout have yet to be announced

German manufacturer Ehret has launched a new solar -powered sliding shutter to provide electricity for residential buildings. 

Built with the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, the SolarSlide is available in eight standard colours and custom shades, including satin, glossy, or textured glass surfaces. The company says this means it can be fitted to any building and allow as much or as little light as needed. 

The glass-glass modules have no visible cell structure, which means that what looks like clear glass is actually generating solar power when you might not realise it.  

Because there is no visible cell technology, the shutters fit neatly into the building while producing energy. 

The electricity generated can be used directly, stored or fed into the grid, which can cut energy costs. The SolarSlide sliding shutters use USG safety glass and powder coated aluminium to make them durable, weather-resistant and virtually maintenance free. 

SolarSlide and the plug-in version SolarPro are designed to be easy to integrate and can be operated manually or motorised. Neither are available yet in the UK, but a launch date is expected later this year. 

What is SolarSlide?

SolarSlide is integrated directly into the build system and is designed for connection to on-site inverters and electricity storage systems, making it particularly suitable for large areas, new buildings and projects with ambitious energy targets. 

SolarSlide fits in well with a  solar panel system, which means that the energy it creates can be used and stored. 

The company said SolarSlideis best for builders, architects and investors who require a professional, fully integrated PV sliding shutter system that maximises energy yield and supports sustainable building certifications. 

What is SolarSlide Pro?

SolarSlide Pro is a plug-and-play system with an integrated micro inverter installed in each sliding sash, allowing electricity generated to be fed directly into the domestic grid or the public grid, up to 600W. 

It functions as a stand-alone mini PV system and it can be expanded and is ideal for households who want to generate solar energy without much effort.

Written By

Tamara Birch Newsletters and sponsored content editor

Tamara is a journalist with more than six years experience writing about environmental topics. This includes advising small businesses on cost-effective ways tom become more sustainable, from installing to solar panels and heat pumps and reducing waste. She has used her journalist and research skills to become highly knowledgeable on sustainable initiatives, issues, and solutions to help consumers do their bit for the environment – all while reducing monthly costs. Now, she’s using this experience to advise homeowners on the benefits of installing low-carbon technologies. She is also qualified in offering innovative initiatives to improve sustainability practices in businesses, from advertising to marketing and publishing.

Her passion for sustainability and eco-friendly solutions stems from a long obsession with nature and animals and ensuring they feel looked after. In her free time, Tamara enjoys reading fantasy novels, visiting the gym, and going on long walks in new areas.

More about