What is Solar Thermal and How Can It Help Me?
Solar thermal technology uses the sun's energy, rather than fossil fuels, to generate low-cost, environmentally friendly thermal energy. This energy is used to heat water or other fluids, and can also power solar cooling systems. Businesses that require large quantities of hot water or other fluids might be a good candidate for this type of technology. Solar thermal systems use solar energy to heat fluids, reducing utility bills by up to 70%. Solar thermal systems differ from solar photovoltaic (PV) systems which generate electricity rather than heat.
How does a Solar Thermal System Work?
- Solar thermal collectors (panels) on a roof/ground absorb solar energy.
- Solar fluid circulated by a pump through the collectors delivers heat to a water storage tank.
- When hot water is needed, the solar-heated water in the storage tank pre-feeds the primary water heating system.
- When pre-fed with the solar hot water, the primary water heater is either not activated, or activated for less time. That means you SAVE MONEY each month when you pay less for the energy needed to heat your water!
As most people are familiar with solar photovoltaic panels, fewer know about using solar as a source of heat in their homes. Solar heating systems often supplement other heating systems, such as radiant heating, boilers, absorption heat pumps, or forced-air heating.
Be sure to ask New Energy Solutions about the growing number of incentives and rebates offered in your state for Renewable Energy installations. Also, Energy Saver has plenty of helpful hints to help you navigate which solar heating system is right for you.
Did you Know? Solar water heating and solar industrial process heat has the potential to be the largest contributor in the next growth era of renewable energy and emission reductions.
Interested in Solar Thermal?
Give New Energy Solutions a call to see if environmentally friendly thermal energy is right for you!