How do solar powered motors work?
A solar-powered automation system consists of three main elements. The solar panel absorbs natural light and converts it into electricity. The energy produced is not consumed immediately, but is stored in a rechargeable battery integrated into the system. The battery then supplies power to the tubular motor, responsible for moving the solar shading. Thanks to this system, the device can work even in the absence of direct light, exploiting the energy collected during the day.
The advantages of Somfy solar motorization solutions
Somfy solar motors are designed to offer several practical benefits. One of the main advantages is the simplicity of installation: as no connection to the electricity grid is necessary, installation takes place without building work and is declared to be three times faster than that of traditional solutions. This feature makes them particularly suitable both when you want to motorise existing shielding and in contexts where the electrical system is not easily accessible.
A further strong point concerns the battery life. The solar panel recharges the battery on both clear and cloudy days, thus ensuring continuous operation of the screens at any time of the day, both day and night. This system also ensures operation even in the event of power outages: the battery is in fact capable of accumulating sufficient energy to guarantee a minimum of 45 days of autonomy in the total absence of light, considering 2 ascents and 2 descents per day.
Finally, it is an eco-designed solution, since once installed, the Somfy solar motorization system offers a long life, with more than 20 years of life for the solar panel and more than 15 years for the battery. The entire ecosystem is also covered by a 7-year warranty, confirming the reliability and durability of the solution.
Somfy solar energy motorization solutions
Somfy has developed a range of solar motors for external vertical shutters and screens that can be installed anywhere, regardless of sunlight and window exposure.
RS100 Solar io
RS100 Solar io is the Somfy solar motor designed for the motorization of roller shutters. It represents the ideal solution for renovation work and for those who want a sustainable choice, thanks to cable-free installation and reduced environmental impact. Among its strong points, the extreme silence stands out, which ensures high living comfort.
The engine is also equipped with obstacle detection and freezing function, functions which help to preserve the system and improve its safety. Finally, the Start & Stop Soft helps to extend the life of the roller shutter.
Altea 50 Solar io
Altea 50 Solar io is a solar motor designed specifically for external vertical screens, and adapts to awnings of all sizes (torque up to 15 Nm). Powered by solar energy, Altea 50 Solar io requires no wiring, ensuring quick and flexible installation.
Naturally, solar motors integrate perfectly with Somfy control systems, offering the possibility of managing automations through remote controls, wall controls, apps or smart home scenarios via TaHoma Switch.
TaHoma switch, the hub for the smart home
Thanks to TaHoma switch, it is in fact possible to create automated scenarios that optimize thermal comfort throughout the year. For example:
- in summer, the screens are automatically lowered during the hottest hours to limit heat entry;
- in winter, they rise during the day to take advantage of solar radiation and close at night to retain internal heat.
These scenarios, manageable via app or voice command, represent a key element for improving the energy efficiency of buildings without sacrificing comfort.
