HEATING . ALWAYS . EVERYWHERE
Empowering Change: Our Mission
At Solar Blanket, we believe that everyone deserves warmth, regardless of their circumstances. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to bring free electricity and heating to those who need it most, all through the transformative power of our innovative Solar Blanket.
Imagine a heated blanket that doesn't just keep you warm but also harnesses the sun's renewable energy. Solar Blanket is designed to combat the pressing issues of fuel poverty, homelessness, and inadequate infrastructure, providing a lightweight, off-grid heating solution that directs warmth towards the user. By minimising energy waste, we maximise comfort for individuals in vulnerable situations.
But we’re not just about warmth; we’re about creating meaningful change. Solar Blanket embodies a commitment to sustainability and equity, advocating for a brighter, more inclusive future. With each blanket, we aim to foster a sense of safety and dignity for those who are often overlooked.
Sign up for our newsletter to join us in our mission to expand access to renewable energy and provide essential warmth to those in need. Together, we can make a tangible difference to foster a more equitable and sustainable future.
self-sufficiency
community
sustainability
THE ORIGIN STORY
When I moved to London in October 2020, autumn was in full swing , and days were growing colder. As I began to explore the beauty of the city and the opportunities it offered, I couldn't help but notice the sharp contrast in my surroundings. Wealth directly across the sight of people creating makeshift homes out of mattresses and blankets, and food banks that weekly set up space in playgrounds and courtyards to provide their community with essentials.
These daily encounters left a lasting impression on me during my commute to university. While I focused on my studies and work, the reality of these situations lingered in my thoughts, particularly when I returned home, where my awareness of my privilege stayed with me for longer. "How was I different from them?"
Motivated by these observations, I decided to leverage my design skills to create accessible and sustainable products aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals. The first, of what I hope will be many products, is the Solar Blanket a heated blanket designed with insights gathered from the Jaywick community in Essex. I believe that by working together, we can drive meaningful innovation and create scalable solutions that provide a more equitable future.
Let's make a difference, join our newsletter or reach out to see how you can support our mission.
Mireille Steinhage, designer of Solar Blanket
is dedicated to making sustainable heating accessible for everyone, providing comfort for all.
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FAQ
How does Solar Blanket function?
Solar Blanket consists of a blanket, solar cell, and battery. The blanket connects to a battery, which can be charged using a solar cell. Currently, our prototype provides approximately 2-3 hours of heat after being charged with UV light for about 6 hours. We are actively working to optimise this by refining the solar cell and battery technology. The blanket operates on a 12-volt system, generating a temperature of around 30°C, and measures 1.5 x 1 meter. It’s most effective as a warming layer to sit or lay on, with pleating that allows for modular use, concentrating heat for maximum efficiency. It comfortably fits one person when folded and can accommodate multiple users when expanded.
What if the sun isn’t shining?
Solar Blanket is designed to work in various weather conditions, relying on UV light rather than direct sunlight. While its efficiency may be reduced on cloudy days, it can still capture UV rays and charge the battery. Additionally, the battery can be charged in public locations, eliminating further expenses.
Where can I buy Solar Blanket?
Solar Blanket is currently in the development phase and not yet available for sale. We are at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage, focusing on developing a prototype that meets industry standards through research and by selecting cost-effective materials. We are preparing for manufacturing and seeking partners and funding to make Solar Blanket accessible to those in need. If you think you can help, please reach out to us.
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Get in touch
We would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about Solar Blanket, suggestions, or want to explore potential partnerships, your feedback is valuable to us as we work towards bringing our product to market. Please don’t hesitate to reach out; we are eager to connect with individuals and organisations who share our vision.
Please feel free to contact us at: mireille@steinhage.eu