Solar Thermal Energy: The Simpler Solar Solution

The sun is the most abundant source of energy available to us, which makes solar energy a more viable solutions “green” technology. However, photovoltaic or PV panels, which use the sun’s energy to generate electricity, can be expensive, and usually have low ratings of efficiency.

For this reason, solar thermal systems are becoming increasingly popular. Essentially, instead of converting photons, or light particles, electrons, particles or electricity, solar thermal designs capture the sun’s energy into heat, which makes them much simpler and therefore more effective and affordable.

Different types of solar thermal technology

Solar thermal systems, also known as solar thermal collectors, the capacity price range and power generation. They usually fall into three categories: low, medium and high energy collectors. Each class has different production capacities, cost and installation procedures.

Low energy collectors are the most common type and are typically used in situations where there is not much heat generated. They are commonly used for heating swimming pools, but can also be used for domestic heating. Usually, they use water or air as a transfer medium collected thermal energy.

As collectors of low power consumption, average power systems typically use flat panels to capture energy. Average energy collectors are commonly used to provide heat and heating water for domestic use. In addition to these uses, medium energy collectors can be used to dry and cook food and water to distill.

Furthermore, when the ultimate goal is the production of electricity, high energy collectors are much more effective. With this type of system, sunlight is usually focused on a single point using mirrors. This typically generates heat, which is then converted into electricity by steam turbines. Due to the complexity and cost of this type of system is generally used in trade or industry.

Refrigeration applications

Solar thermal energy can also be used to cool your home. Thermal solar chimney is a device that pushes the warmth of your home during the summer. It does this by taking advantage of the fact that hot air rises. The fireplace, which opens into the house, heated during the day, making up the air inside and out, pulling cold air in the house.

Installation

Whatever your needs for heating and cooling, using thermal solar energy is a great way to save on energy costs and reduce their impact on the environment. Fortunately, the installation of a solar thermal system is usually much easier and safer installation of photovoltaic panels. Therefore, this type of system is great if you are trying to save on installation costs or simply want a relatively simple DIY solution.