solar energy
Solar thermal heating uses radiation from the sun (not heat or sunlight) to transfer energy into a fluid circulating through the solar panels installed on your roof, which then indirectly heats water in a hot water cylinder.
There are two types of panel on the market: photovoltaic panels that convert the sun’s radiation into electricity, and ones that use the sun’s energy to heat water for a property.
The water-heating panels also use two different types of technology: one uses a vacuum tube system and the other flat plate technology, which transfers solar energy from a copper grid inside the panel to circulating water, in the form of heat. Both are efficient and don’t necessarily need direct sunlight to work. While they can work efficiently in a variety of conditions, however, strong direct sunlight is obviously best.
Solar panels are generally robust, maintenance free, have a 25-year life-span, and can provide between 50% and 70% of annual domestic hot water requirements, leading to reduced energy bills and less reliance on gas, oil or electricity for water heating.
To find out more about solar heating technology, click here.
