Solar Hot Water
With the rising cost of energy and the prospect of shortages in the future, the idea of harnessing the power of the sun as a renewable energy source is gaining in popularity around the world. There are already a significant number of solar water heating units installed in the UK and the number is growing as the technology improves and people realize the many advantages of solar heating.
One of the biggest advantages of solar energy is that it is readily available to everyone, cutting out the necessity of the middle-man energy provider. Just a portion of the roof of a typical house receives more energy than is needed to heat water for its occupants for more than a year. Systems such as Kingspan's Thermomax are designed to work in any climate even a cool one like in the UK.
Initial costs to install a solar water heating system vary according to the application but can produce sufficient hot water for a family's daily needs in summer and significantly off-set hot water energy costs in winter. Since solar water heating systems save more than 50 percent on hot water energy bills you will recoup your outlay well within 10 years. Systems installed by MCS accredited installers such as Dalliam Limited will receive the new Renewable Heat Premium which is a one-off payment for adopting renewable technology. These payments start in July 2011.
Using solar energy has a positive impact on the environment by reducing the use of non renewable energy sources to heat water, such as gas, coal, oil or nuclear power. Solar energy is safe, efficient, reliable and non-polluting. The consumer has direct control over the system, and unlike conventional water heaters, hot water is available even during loss of electrical power.
