Solar Power

Photovoltaic systems use cells to convert solar radiation into electricity. The PV cell consists of one or two layers of a semi conducting material, usually silicon. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers, causing electricity to flow.

Solar thermal systems collect and convert energy from the sun’s rays using solar collector panels positioned on a roof or South facing space. Liquid in the system pipe work is heated up and circulated through a solar coil in the base of a specially designed hot water cylinder which then transfers the heat to the stored water which can be drawn off at the taps. The temperature in the collector is constantly monitored by an electronic controller and compared with the temperature in the cylinder – when the temperature in the collector exceeds the cylinder by a pre-setamount the pump is activated to circulate the heat transfer fluid. In the winter months, when the days are shorter and the sun’s rays less intense the useable energy is still significant but much reduced. This means that an additional heating source such as an immersion element or a conventional boiler is still necessary.

To learn more about solar thermal systems and for design and simulation software please visit our sister site at : www.solardesign.co.uk