An innovative battery that charges with electricity generated from solar panels is to make its first UK appearance in Bristol next week.
The Tesla Powerwall is set to revolutionise how buildings use energy as it will allow homes to store solar energy generated during the day to use later in the evening when it is needed. At present homeowners with solar panels have to sell their excess solar energy back to their utility company. 
The battery will be on display at an event hosted by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) next Thursday, sponsored by Devizes-based TH White, which has worked with the solar energy division of Austrian technology company Fronius to bring the Tesla Powerwall to the UK.
Alex Lockton, general manager for TH White’s energy, fire and security divisions, said: “Tesla and Fronius are leading the way in electric vehicles and batteries and this new Powerwall technology is set to change the world of energy.
“It isn’t on sale yet here in the UK so this appearance at CIAT’s event is a real coup and, as European Green Capital 2015, Bristol is the perfect host for showcasing this revolutionary green technology.
“We are excited to be sponsoring this event, which brings together the top Chartered Architectural Technologists in the South West. As market leaders in our sector, we have access to some of the most exciting technologies on the market today and the evening promises to give guests food for thought on the future of building design for many years to come.”
The event, which will also act as the regional celebration for the Institute’s 50th Anniversary, will be an opportunity for the industry to find out more about leading renewable technologies, such as the Tesla battery and the Fronius hybrid inverter, as well as products from the TH White’s core ranges including CCTV, solar, biomass and anaerobic food waste digestion.
CIAT represents chartered architectural technologists in the UK and internationally – a profession which specialises in the technology of architecture focusing on the design of buildings for use and performance.
One of its aims is to promote the development and integration of technology, such as the Tesla Powerwall, into the built environment.
CIAT president Karl Grace said: “This year is a momentous one for our institute as we celebrate our 50th anniversary, the development of the Architectural Technology discipline and the diversity of our members’ skills within the sector particularly within design and specification.
“This is a year-long celebration with events across the institute’s regions and centres and we are looking forward to this event hosted by our Wessex Region as we will be able to show our guests some of the most exciting technology in the world which could change the way buildings are designed for years to come, to enhance the community and environment for those living within it.”
The event will start with a tour of Bristol’s Floating Harbour on The Matthew before moving to the M Shed where TH White’s technology zone will be displayed. Guests will be treated to a range of entertainment throughout the evening, a summer BBQ as well as a view of the Bristol Balloon Fiesta’s fireworks from the M Shed terrace.
