Solar Thermal

Solar thermal panels use the sun’s energy to heat water, which is then usually stored in a hot water cylinder.

A boiler or immersion heater is usually used to heat the water further, and to provide hot water when solar energy is unavailable.

Solar thermal systems work well to pre-heat water for domestic use and for swimming pools. They also work well with under floor heating systems.

In England, a well-sited system can provide all a household’s hot water requirements during the summer months.

Domestic solar thermal systems currently qualify for a Renewable Heat Premium Payment of £300 towards the cost of installation, and will also qualify for the Renewable Heat Incentive (income based on heat generation) when it is introduced next year.

Commercial solar thermal systems (up to 200kWth in size) can claim the Renewable Heat Incentive already. At 8.5p per kWh, this is not to be sniffed at!