  We address the question whether features known from quantum chromodynamics
(QCD) can possibly also show up in solid-state physics. It is shown that
spinless fermions of charge $e$ on a checkerboard lattice with nearest-neighbor
repulsion provide for a simple model of confined fractional charges. After
defining a proper vacuum the system supports excitations with charges $\pm e/2$
attached to the ends of strings. There is a constant confining force acting
between the fractional charges. It results from a reduction of vacuum
fluctuations and a polarization of the vacuum in the vicinity of the connecting
strings.
