Do Motorized Shades Need Wiring? Rechargeable, Zigbee, Matter & Solar Explained

Motorized blackout roller shade with remote in a modern bedroom

No—SunShieldor motorized shades do not require hardwiring. The available motors are rechargeable and include a handheld remote. Choose the control package based on whether you want remote-only operation, app/voice integration through a compatible Zigbee setup, Matter compatibility, or optional solar-assisted charging.

Motorized blackout roller shade with remote in a modern bedroom

Quick answer: which motor package should you choose?

Motor package Best for Added price
Remote Rechargeable + Remote Simple everyday control without a smart-home hub $155
Remote Rechargeable + Remote + Solar Panel Sunny windows where solar-assisted charging is practical $184
Zigbee + Remote Homes using a compatible Zigbee gateway for app or voice control $225
Zigbee + Remote + Solar Panel Zigbee control plus solar-assisted charging $254
Matter + Remote Customers building a compatible Matter smart-home system $225
Matter + Remote + Solar Panel Matter compatibility plus solar-assisted charging $254

Motor-package prices are add-ons for custom shades. Compatibility and available functions depend on the customer's gateway, smart-home platform and regional setup.

Do motorized shades need an electrician?

These rechargeable motor packages normally do not need an electrician or an in-wall power connection. The motor is built into the shade headrail and is operated with the included remote. Charge access should remain reachable after installation.

Hardwiring can be useful in some commercial or new-construction projects, but it is not required for the rechargeable SunShieldor options described here.

Remote, Zigbee or Matter: what changes?

Remote rechargeable

This is the most direct option. Use the included remote to raise, lower and position the shade. It is a good choice when you want motorized convenience without adding a hub or smart-home platform.

Zigbee

A Zigbee motor is intended for customers who want app or voice control through a compatible Zigbee gateway and platform. The remote remains included, so the shade can still be operated directly.

Matter

A Matter motor is intended for a compatible Matter ecosystem. Matter can simplify cross-platform smart-home integration, but actual controls depend on the controller, app, network and regional availability.

Rechargeable motorized roller shade with remote and optional solar panel

What does the solar panel do?

The optional solar panel supports battery charging when it receives suitable daylight. It does not change the shade fabric or control method. Window direction, obstructions and available sunlight affect charging performance, so occasional cable charging may still be needed.

Which shade style works best with a motor?

You can also compare all standard-size motorized shades or order a made-to-measure version from the custom-size shade collection.

Standard size or custom size?

Choose a standard size when one of the listed width-and-height combinations suits the window. Choose custom size when you need a finished width or height that is not offered as a standard configuration. Custom shades have a minimum finished width of 30 cm (11.82 in) and an 8 sq. ft. minimum billable area per shade.

Before ordering, use the window measuring guide and decide between inside mount and outside mount.

Frequently asked questions

Can motorized shades work without Wi-Fi?

Yes. The included handheld remote provides direct shade control. Smart functions depend on the selected motor package and compatible equipment.

Do Zigbee motorized shades include a remote?

Yes. The current Zigbee package includes a remote. App or voice control requires a compatible Zigbee gateway and platform.

Do Matter motorized shades include a remote?

Yes. The current Matter package includes a remote. Matter features depend on the customer's compatible controller and smart-home platform.

Is the solar panel required?

No. It is optional. Select a package without solar if cable charging is convenient, or select a solar-panel package when the window receives suitable daylight.

Can I order motorized shades in custom sizes?

Yes. Roller, zebra, cellular and Roman shades are available in custom sizes with cordless or motorized control choices.

Choose your next step

Browse standard-size motorized shades, compare custom-size shades, or read motorized vs. cordless shades before deciding.