It’s Time To Harness The Sun’s Energy.
In the context of ever rising energy costs, climate change, and changing legislation, the need for a heating and hot water technology that is future-proof, cost-effective and able to use an unlimited, sustainable source of energy is essential.
Every year the sun provides over 8000 times as much energy as we consume worldwide and in the UK alone we receive between 900 and 1200kWh of energy per m2of land per year.
On average, every home spends 20-25% of its combined annual energy bills on water heating. In the UK a well designed solar water heating system can provide almost all the hot water for a home during the summer months and on average around 50-60% year round.
This is why solar water heating systems are one of the most cost-effective and environmentally-friendly renewable energy solutions available, reducing fuel bills and building carbon dioxide emissions.
A typical Solar Thermal system consists of panels or ‘collectors’ attached to your roof that absorb heat from the sun. This is then transferred to the water in a hot water cylinder via a cylinder coil. An immersion element or secondary coil and boiler ensure you always have the hot water you need.
The requirement for a hot water cylinder means that a Solar Thermal system is more suited to homes that feature a Regular or System Boiler than to those homes with a Combi Boilers where a hot water cylinder is not already installed.
Planning permission is not normally required for a domestic system unless your home is a listed building or in a conservation area. If in doubt however you should check with your local planning authority before work starts.