Solar heat panels (also called Solar Thermal Systems) are what we generally associate with renewable energy solutions, and they are one of the most commonly used renewable projects in the UK. They are low cost, efficient and require little maintenance, with an expected lifetime of 20years. However, a common misconception is that the UK does not have a hot enough climate to generate the heat required for these systems. This is not true – new technology means that the systems only require light to generate the heat, in a similar manner to Solar PV systems.
Solar Thermal systems can be used to generate hot water, household heating and heating for a swimming pool, and will benefit from the incoming Renewable Heat Incentive in July 2011 for corporates and October 2012 for the domestic sector.
The panels can be installed on most roofs, although ideally the roof is south, south-west or south-easterly facing, with no buildings or trees obstructing the light available. The panels work with most modern boilers, although you do need to check this before installation.
Home Pages of interest:
- Visit the Solar Thermal home page
- Visit the Energie Solar home page
- Visit the Solar Thermal and Swimming Pools home page
Other Pages of interest in this section:
- What is Solar Heat Power?
- How Does Solar Thermal Work?
- Types of Solar Thermal Systems
- Flat Plate versus Evacuated Tube Collectors
- Annual Energy Production
- Components of a Solar Thermal System
- Costs of a Solar Thermal System
- Servicing and Warranty
- Solar Thermal Financials and Paybacks
- Our Products
- Solar Thermal and Swimming Pools
