How we can use the Sun
There are three broad technology categories for harnessing the Sun’s energy:
- Passive Solar Design: Through design and architecture, solar energy is absorbed directly into a building to reduce energy needed for space heating.
- Photovoltaics (PV): Conversion of the sun’s radiation into electricity to help meet the demand for electricity.
- Active Solar Heating: Integrating a collector and boiler system to heat water, which can be utilised for hot water, space heating and swimming pools.
The UK, and the members of the Solar Trade Association, have a large expertise and a range of high quality products in each of these technology areas. The choice of which technology to use depends on the application. Passive solar design is only feasible on newly built properties, where all three of these technologies can be integrated to reduce carbon emissions. When deciding between using PV and active solar heating on existing properties, it is dependant on the type of application and what is wanted to be achieved. For example to provide a contribution to heat and hot water in an existing home, Active Solar Heating is usually the most practical and cost effective solution, however if the outcome is to reduce electricity demand from the grid, then PV is the best solution.
House builders are increasingly using integrated Solar Thermal and PV products such as solar tiles and collectors as building materials in their own right. For new housing developments, both Solar Thermal and PV are practical and cost-effective low carbon renewable energy solutions. PV can be used cost-effectively for commercial cladding and office building facades where it displaces conventional prestige products and is becoming increasingly popular in domestic properties. Solar Thermal systems are also increasingly being used in commercial and industrial situations as well as the traditional domestic market.