The Sun's energy can provide heat (especially for water) by use of Active Solar Thermal Heating Systems. It can reduce the space heating demand of new buildings by use of Passive Solar Design. The Sun can also provide electricity through use of Photovoltaic (PV) Systems.

The UK has 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. For example, to provide heat and hot water to existing households, Active Solar Heating is usually the most practicable and cost effective; for new houses both Active Solar Heating and Passive Solar Design should be considered. Active Solar Heating can also be used to heat water for swimming pools, for hotels and for agricultural applications such as in dairy farms.

When electricity rather than heat is required, PV is a robust, flexible, scaleable technology which can provide energy for both houses and other buildings. The typical sized household PV system for example will provide at least 2,000 units of electricity per annum and save at least 1.14 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. PV has a proven working life of 45 years plus and modules typically come with a 25 year manufacturers warranty.

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. Solar Thermal systems are also increasingly being used in commercial and industrial situations as well as the traditional domestic market.

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