zlacker

>>kenton+(OP)
> [High AC cost.] Perhaps we have too many windows letting in too much sunlight...

My office has automatic blinds that open and close according to some climate control system. The blinds are within the double glazing, so they can't be damaged by weather (or cats). The nice version for a home would be something like [1].

I'm sure the owner could program the automation so they only change position if no-one is in the room. There's no point having sunlight streaming into an empty room.

[1] https://www.betweenglassblinds.co.uk/

>>Symbio+dz
In the winter in a normal European/northern US climate, you probably want sunlight streaming into an empty room to reduce the heating bill.

Possibly never in Austin, TX: I am not too privy to the temperatures it gets down to in the winter, though heating was brought up too.