How Solar Films Help Manage Heat in Commercial Buildings

A standard glazing can let through up to 80% of solar radiation into a commercial building. When a sunbeam hits a glass surface, part of it is reflected, another part is absorbed, but a large fraction is transmitted inside. This phenomenon causes a greenhouse effect and increases air conditioning needs by 30 to 50%. According to this ADEME report, French commercial buildings air-condition about 55% of their surfaces and consumed nearly 3 TWh of energy for cooling in 2020, representing about one-third of the total energy consumption of the residential and service sectors. The energy-saving potential related to glazing is therefore crucial. And as we will see, solar films offer an effective and economical solution to reduce excessive heat without overloading air conditioning or compromising brightness. Request a solar film quote

The Challenges of Heat Management in Commercial Buildings

Commercial buildings often have large volumes and high comfort requirements to ensure an optimal customer experience. These factors pose both an energy challenge and a comfort challenge for clients and employees alike.

The Energy Challenge of Large Glazed Surfaces

The large glass areas of modern buildings are the main entry points for solar radiation and the main cause of the resulting greenhouse effect. The excessive thermal transmission from solar rays causes heat buildup inside the building. Among the multiple consequences of this phenomenon:

• Increased energy consumption from air conditioning systems
• Thermal discomfort for occupants
• Temperature variations between sun-exposed zones and protected interior spaces, leading to uneven comfort

In shopping centers or office spaces — often with extensive glazing — this effect is amplified. It can shorten customer visits, reduce employee well-being, and often leads managers to excessively lower the thermostat.

In Luxembourg, worker protection law ITM-ET 32.10 sets a maximum indoor workplace temperature of 26°C. The temperature difference between indoor and outdoor areas under air conditioning must not exceed 8°C. While some comply, others prioritize the customer experience.

The Consequences of Excessive Air Conditioning

Air conditioners running beyond their nominal capacity lead to a spike in energy consumption — as shown in the French figures above.
Temperature fluctuations between glazed and protected areas become more frequent, creating thermal stress for customers and employees alike. This affects both revenue and workplace productivity.
Finally, HVAC systems suffer premature wear from running at full power for extended periods.

How Do Solar Films Regulate Heat?

Solar films are an innovative solution for controlling solar gain in commercial buildings. Their ability to act on solar radiation depends on the type of film used.

3 Mechanisms for Optimal Solar Control

Reflection of Solar Radiation

Some solar films reflect a large portion of solar radiation outward. This is the case with one-way mirror exterior films, silver exterior films, or solar varnish. These provide maximum thermal protection along with excellent light transmission. They are ideal for offices, shops, or hotels.

Partial Heat Absorption

Interior tinted films absorb part of the radiation and gradually dissipate the heat. They help reduce the greenhouse effect while preserving natural lighting. These are suitable for sun-exposed buildings such as storefronts or coworking spaces with large glass surfaces.

UV and Infrared Filtration

Anti-fading films block up to 99% of UV rays, protecting furniture and interior materials from fading. Photochromic films go a step further by adjusting their tint based on exterior light intensity, allowing dynamic management of light and heat.

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Tangible Benefits of Solar Films for Commercial Buildings

The benefits of solar films for commercial spaces fall into four key categories:

Reduced Air Conditioning Costs

With solar gain reduced, the EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) of air conditioners improves. HVAC systems run at lower frequencies, extending their lifespan and reducing energy consumption — provided they are properly sized.

Improved Comfort and Productivity

Temperature swings, excessive brightness, and eye strain are all factors that impact customer comfort and screen visibility in offices. These effects can reduce in-store time and lower team productivity. Installing solar films can have an immediate, positive impact on your revenue.

Preservation of Furniture and Materials

For luxury stores and hotels, protecting high-end materials is a priority. Installing anti-fading films helps reduce aging of items in display windows and preserves expensive interior décor in upscale hotels.

Eco-Friendly Operation

Lastly, solar films support the energy transition of commercial buildings. They can help in earning certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). They reduce the carbon footprint indirectly and provide a passive solution that promotes energy efficiency.

Why Choose Solarscreen for Your Solar Films?

With over 40 years of expertise, Solarscreen is the European leader in solar films and offers:

• Tailor-made solutions with all types of films adapted for offices, hotels, and retail spaces
• Premium service that has supported 5,000 installers
• Express shipping
• Dedicated technical support
• ISO 9001 certification
• In-house R&D team driving innovation

Solarscreen also boasts:

• Several million square meters of solar film sold each year
• Premium clients such as Disneyland Paris, Louis Vuitton, and AXA Insurance
• Presence in France, Germany, Luxembourg, Poland, and Italy