subject: The facts about Solar Energy [print this page] The facts about Solar Energy The facts about Solar Energy
Most people know that solar energy is a renewable, eco-friendly source of energy that can be captured by solar panels and used to power homes and businesses. But although it is becoming an increasingly popular choice in British homes, there is still some confusion about the advantages of solar energy and exactly how it works. Here are a few facts that might surprise you:
The amount of energy the earth receives from the sun in one hour is more than that used by the whole population of the earth in a year.
There are two types of domestic solar energy systems available: solar thermal energy which uses the sun's energy to heat water, and solar electric energy which converts the sun's energy into electricity.
Solar energy won't begin to run out for at least another 5,000 million years.
You don't have to live in a sunny climate to benefit from solar energy. The energy comes from the sun's radiation rather than direct sunlight, so solar panels still work under cloudy skies.
Solar heating can supply up to 70% of the hot water used by an average UK household over a year.
Each solar energy system is self-contained so it's an ideal choice for outbuildings not connected to a mains power supply.
In UK homes, using solar energy in conjunction with other types of energy is usually the most practical arrangement. For example, solar powered central heating can be designed so that if the temperature falls below a comfortable minimum at night, or in winter it will automatically be boosted using gas, oil or mains electric.
Solar energy is free, and once solar panels have been installed on your roof they cost nothing to run and rarely need any maintenance.
Solar energy powers all the communications satellites currently orbiting the earth.
In most cases, you will not need planning permission to have solar panels fitted on your roof. Even if your home is listed, permission is easier to obtain than it used to be and an experienced solar energy engineer can usually find a compromise that will please the planners and the homeowner.
You don't have to have a south facing sloping roof on which to install solar panels. They can still work efficiently if you have one panel facing east and another facing west. They can also be placed on flat roofs, or on a house wall if the roof is unsuitable.
To decide how much you could benefit from solar energy you'll need to look at the facts and figures related to your own home and energy usage. Take advice from a qualified solar heating engineer who offers free, no obligation consultations.
