Solar Thermal (Hot Water)

EnergyLink can arrange for you to have up to three quotations from approved Solar Thermal installers in your local area. This avoids rouge tradesmen and can save you up to 75% off the cost of your system. Even though incentives available from next year will dramatically reduce the payback time, it is important to make sure that the initial installation cost is competitive.

Solar Thermal grants ended on 24th May 2010 and are scheduled to be replaced in April 2011 by Renewable Heat Incentives (RHIs) which are payments for every unit of heat generated. These payments are expected to last for a period of 20 years after installation. Suitable systems installed now will qualify.

Solar thermal or hot water systems convert the sun's energy into hot water. The water is then used for washing, bathing, etc. Up to one third of your hot water can be supplied by a solar thermal system which also has the added advantage of reducing Carbon Dioxide emissions. Systems can also be used for heating swimming pools. Note that solar hot water systems do not heat the water used for central heating.

Is Your Property Suitable?

There are several factors to consider before you look at installing a solar hot water system. As mentioned above, you must intend using the system to heat water for use in your property or a swimming pool as they do not heat water for central heating systems. You should be aware of the likely cost and understand what the potential savings of the system are likely to be.

The property must be owned by the applicant. If the property is a listed building or situated in a conservation area or world heritage site, you should check with your local authority before applying as planning permission is far less likely to be obtained.

Solar Thermal Checklist

To be used for hot water, not central heating.
Understand typical costs (£3,000 to £5,000 for domestic).
Understand the potential savings and benefits.
Property / land is owned by the applicant, not rented.
No restrictions e.g. listed building, conservation area.
3m2 to 4m2 of space available to locate panels.
Panels can face between South East and South West.
Panels will not be shaded by buildings, trees, etc.
Have space for a larger or additional cylinder.
To be fitted by approved installers, not DIY.

In most cases, solar panels are located on a roof. You must have at least 3m² to 4m² of space available to situate the panels. The panels must ideally face between South East and South West. It may be possible to split them between East and West facing although this will add additional cost. The proposed panel location should not be shaded by trees, buildings or other obstacles. The roof should also be strong enough to take the weight of the panels. It will also be necessary to fit an additional or larger hot water cylinder.

How EnergyLink Can Help You

EnergyLink can arrange for you to have up to three quotes from approved installers of solar thermal hot water systems in your local area. Our installers can arrange free, no-obligation surveys of your property and provide written quotations if required. If the surveys show that your property is suitable and you are willing to go ahead, the installer you choose will arrange the work and install a system that will qualify for RHI payments.