Solar shades "started very techie-looking and didn't fit into every residential application, " says JoEllen Ropele, merchandising manager.

WSJ: Sheer Curtains, Solar Shades Are Popular Window Treatments

Solar manufacturers have started looking at the U.S. and emerging countries in Asia to replace falling sales in Europe.

FORBES: Asian Demand May Be Bright Spot For Suntech

It started its solar enterprise three years ago but that now accounts for half of its business.

ECONOMIST: Manufacturing and exports