Solar Thermal Panels
Solar thermal energy is highly underrated in the UK yet it is affordable and compliments other heating systems.
As of December 2024, there have been approximately 43,385 installations of solar thermal panel systems in UK homes, according to data from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). This represents a very small percentage of UK households compared to solar photovoltaic (PV) panel systems, which have been installed in over 1.6 million homes, roughly 5% of all UK households. The popularity of solar thermal has significantly declined in recent years, with fewer than 900 installations between 2022 and 2023 and under 200 in 2024, while solar PV installations have been surging in contrast.
Solar Hot Water Panels
How does it work?
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Solar thermal panels work by absorbing energy from the sun to heat a fluid, typically a mixture of water and antifreeze, within roof-mounted collectors. During the day, as the fluid heats up, it is pumped through a heat exchanger located in a special insulated hot water cylinder, where it transfers its thermal energy to the household water supply
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Considerations.
​Design considerations for installing solar thermal panels involve several key factors to ensure optimal performance, safety, and compliance with regulations.
Orientation and Placement
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Optimal orientation: Panels should ideally face south or between southeast and southwest for maximum sun exposure.
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Angle: The recommended tilt angle is approximately 30-50 degrees, depending on geographic location.​
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Shading: Panels must be free from shading caused by trees, chimneys, or nearby structures, as shading significantly impacts efficiency.
Roof and Structural Considerations
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Roof material and condition: The roof must be strong enough to support panels, with any necessary repairs made beforehand.
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​Roof type and space: Flat roofs require different mounting techniques, and sufficient unobstructed space should be available to accommodate the panel size.
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​Protrusion limits: Panels should not protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface and should be installed at least 1 meter from the edge of flat roofs for safety considerations.
Planning and Regulations
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Planning permission: Usually not required unless on listed or conservation buildings; check local regulations.
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​Design standards: Installations should comply with European and local standards, including safety and electrical wiring requirements.
System and Technical Specifics
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System size: Based on hot water needs, roof space, and climate, typically around 4m² for a family home in the UK.
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​Compatibility: System integration with existing hot water systems, possibly requiring a twin-coil cylinder.
Additional Considerations
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Access for maintenance: Ensure the system is accessible for periodic servicing and inspections.
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​Environmental and aesthetic impact: Minimize visual impact, especially on listed or conservation area properties, by installing on less sensitive parts of the building.
Consulting a certified solar thermal professional is highly recommended to tailor these considerations to specific properties and ensure compliance with all safety and planning requirements.
Advantages of using
solar energy:
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1. Renewable Energy
Solar energy is classified as one of the most effective sources of renewable energy. The sun is a free commodity and although the British winters may seem bleak at times new technology means we can harness more of the suns power and convert it into electricity to heat, cool or power appliances throughout your home or office.
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2. Clean energy.
With new recycled materials being increasingly used within the construction process of Solar PV (photovoltaic) Panels, the Carbon Footprint of manufacture and installation is decreasing making them an even greener solution than ever before.
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3. Save money on energy bills.
With energy bills hitting an all time high, having your own supply of sustainably generated power could see a reduction in your monthly bills and in many cases provides all your heating needs for many months of the year.
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4. No "Planning Permission".
As solar panels are considered ‘permitted development’ you usually don't need a permit to install them on your roof. There are a few limitations you need to bear in mind before installation and it's always worth checking with your local Authority before carrying out any work.
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5. Low maintenance.
Once installed, solar panels require very little maintenance or ongoing servicing.
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