Solar energy is the most appropriate source of renewable energy of direct relevance to
the domestic use and it is utilised in three different ways: -

Passive Solar Design
This Solar method for saving energy is to utilise the actual design of the building to
maximise the benefit of the sunshine falling on it. (Solar gain) Properties that are built
specifically to gain from this type of Solar gain are usually constructed facing south,with
the main living areas having large south facing windows.
Roof windows, conservatories and an atrium ( a glazed space in the middle of a building)
can be incorporated into the design of a building to get the benefit of solar gain. The
construction should also have high thermal mass and be well insulated to retain the heat
gained throughout the day.
Some studies on houses built specifically to gain from Passive Solar Design have shown
savings of around 40% on heating costs.
Solar Water Heating
Solar water heating uses the sun’s energy to provide a portion of the hot water needs in
domestic property. Basically, they are panels or collectors that contain a fluid which is
circulated through the panels and then through a coil within an hot water cylinder.
A well designed system can provide as much as 50% of a households needs over a
12 month period.
Typical professional installed systems can cost between £2,500 - £4,000, but DIY kits
are now available and there are some grants available to help with the costs.
Solar Photovoltaics (Solar PV)
Solar Photovoltaic cells are used to convert light energy into electrical energy. In domestic
property these cells are usually fitted on the roof and can be found in the form of roof tiles
or cladding.
There are three main types of cell, each with their own working characteristics, they are
monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin/thick film silicon. The crystalline type being the
most efficient but usually more expensive to install.
On average a typical domestic system could produce 1500 kwh per year, resulting in
approx. 30 - 50 % saving on your electricity bill.
The electricity generated from these panels is DC (Direct Current), whereas the normal
supplies are AC (Alternating Current). This means that an inverter is required to change
the current from DC to AC. Therefore, it is recommended that these panels are installed
by professional installers

If you would like more information, advice or a FREE HOME SURVEY  for a Solar
Installation don’t hesitate to contact us at enquiries@hipsurv.co.uk.