German Startup Turns Shop Awnings into Mini Solar Power Plants

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German Startup Builds Solar Awnings to Turn Thousands of Shopfronts into Mini Power Stations with Up to 1,800 W of Power

A German startup is turning an everyday sunshade into a small photovoltaic power generator. Essen-based Solar Markise has developed the SolarMarkise, an awning with flexible solar cells integrated into the fabric. The system provides shade while producing electricity for homes, cafés, restaurants and other businesses.

The technology is designed to work much like a conventional retractable awning. Its solar fabric can be rolled up when the awning is closed and extended when shade is needed. The fabric is mounted on an aluminum frame, allowing the system to combine the functions of sun protection and photovoltaic generation in the same structure.

Solar Markise currently offers two versions. The SolarMarkise M measures about 3.51 × 3 meters and has a maximum output of 1.35 kWp, while the larger SolarMarkise L measures about 4.35 × 3 meters and reaches 1.8 kWp. The company lists weights of approximately 77 kg and 100 kg, respectively.

The company says the smaller system can generate up to about 1,200 kWh of electricity per year, while the larger version can reach approximately 1,600 kWh under favorable conditions. Solar Markise estimates annual electricity-cost savings of up to around €480 for the M model and €640 for the L model, although actual production and savings depend on factors such as orientation, shading and local solar conditions.

The awnings are also designed to remain functional as outdoor weather protection. According to the published specifications, the fabric provides 100% UV protection and is waterproof, while a wind sensor is included. The company also states that installation generally takes about two to four hours, depending on the project and installation conditions.

The system is primarily intended for self-consumption, meaning the electricity can be used directly by the building or business instead of being generated solely for export to the grid. Battery storage can also be used with the system, allowing some of the generated electricity to be stored for later consumption.

The technology has already moved beyond the prototype stage. Solar Markise says an early private pilot was installed in Iserlohn in April 2025, while two SolarMarkisen were installed at Moxxa Caffè in Cologne in April 2026. The café uses the awnings to shade its outdoor seating while the integrated solar technology generates electricity for the business.

The company is also expanding its installations among commercial customers. In September 2026, Cologne restaurant Kebapland was reported to be using solar awnings with a combined peak output of around 1.8 kW. Solar Markise says the electricity can be fed into the premises and that surplus generation can also be stored with suitable battery equipment.

Solar Markise was founded in 2025 by five friends from Essen. WDR reported in July that the founders had personally installed around 10 SolarMarkisen in Germany at that stage while they were developing sales and installation partnerships. The company is now looking to work more closely with specialist awning retailers, solar installers and other professional partners.

Prices currently start at about €4,499 for the 1.35 kWp model and €5,499 for the 1.8 kWp version. Solar Markise says this represents roughly a 10%–15% premium over high-quality conventional awnings, with the additional cost intended to be offset over time through electricity savings. The startup plans to expand across Germany, Austria and Switzerland, while also developing solar-powered roller shutters, retractable shading systems and parasols.