Solar protection systems in the context of energy efficiency: international standards, assessment and prospects for Ukraine
The summer heat has once again reminded Ukrainians of the importance of sun protection. While most people open windows in search of fresh air or turn on air conditioners, other approaches to ensuring a comfortable temperature in the home are increasingly being developed around the world – with the help of modern sun protection systems.
According to research, up to 40% of heat can be lost through windows in winter, and up to 87% of excess heat enters the room through them in summer. And while windows themselves have long been the focus of energy-saving programs, their complements — blinds, shutters, and curtains — are only just beginning to receive due recognition.
New approaches in the world: window + coverage + user behavior
Modern energy efficiency assessment systems around the world are gradually moving from analyzing only the window as a separate element to a comprehensive approach. This means that not only the characteristics of the double-glazed window are taken into account, but also what coating is used (external or internal), and even the behavior of residents – for example, how regularly and at what time of day the blinds are closed.
In the US, the Window Accessories Energy Efficiency Council (AERC) is working on this area, and has introduced a rating system for blinds, curtains, and shutters. It evaluates not only the heat transfer (U-factor) and solar heat gain (SHGC) indicators, but also user behavior scenarios: for example, how automatic opening and closing will affect energy consumption.
In Europe, the EN 14500 standard is in effect, which allows for accurate calculation of the impact of sun protection textiles in combination with double-glazed windows. There, special attention is paid to the gtot indicator – it reflects how much solar heat passes through the combination of “glass + coating”. The ideal value is close to zero.
Why is this important for Ukraine?
The EN 14500 standard has already been officially implemented in Ukraine – by order of the Ministry of Regional Development No. 285 dated December 28, 2022 on the batch adoption of European CEN/CENELEC standards. However, in practice it is almost never used. At the same time, the widespread implementation of this standard would make it possible to objectively compare the effectiveness of various sun protection solutions and make technically sound decisions at the design and reconstruction stages.
This is especially important in the post-war reconstruction period, when energy costs are high and buildings need to be renovated quickly, economically and efficiently. Certification of window coverings would allow us to compare the feasibility of using multifunctional glass, external roller blinds or internal roller blinds – based on real data, not marketing claims.
Prospects for state support
A completely logical step in the future could be to include blinds in energy modernization programs – similar to the “Warm Loans” program already familiar to Ukrainians.
In the United States, for example, certain models of cellular blinds tested and certified by the AERC may qualify for a tax credit under the federal Energy Efficiency Improvement Program (Section 25C). This program provides reimbursement for up to 30% of the cost (but not more than $1,200 per year) of energy-efficient equipment and materials installed in your home. This is an example of how government policy encourages the installation of certified solutions.
Australia has the WincovER system, which assigns “star” energy efficiency ratings to solar shading materials. In Europe, from May 2025, even motorized blinds will be rated as part of a home’s energy consumption system under the new EU energy label.
This is a signal for Ukraine. If we want to be part of the European market, we should not only build new buildings with modern windows, but also provide them with a full set of equipment – with systems for protecting against overheating in summer and heat loss in winter. And that means – with windows that “work” together with blinds and curtains as a single system.
Conclusions
Energy efficiency starts with the details. And although blinds may seem like a simple interior element, when combined with high-quality windows and conscious use, they can reduce the load on air conditioners and heating by tens of percent. And this means savings for the family, reduced CO₂ emissions for the environment, and comfort that is felt every day.
That is why the Ukrainian professional environment should initiate the adaptation of international standards, introduce certification, and promote the topic of energy-saving window coverings at the state policy level.
The material was prepared by Anton Nekrylov, honorary member of NEBAU, based on the results of his participation in the Attachments Energy Rating Council (AERC) conference, which took place on April 16, 2025 in West Palm Beach, USA.
