Solar Thermal

Solar thermal power is power that is taken directly from the sun and used for heating purposes. Solar power has been around for decades and has been growing in popularity. Solar thermal power really started to take off in the mid to late 70’s. The two oil embargoes combined with rising fuel costs forced people to take a second look at how we were heating and cooling our homes. The situation has changed however; solar thermal power is still growing in popularity.

Solar thermal water heaters are highly popular. They are much more efficient that the traditional or combination boilers. They heat the water so it remains at a constant temperature. It also uses the sun as its source of power so environmental concerns need not be an issue. Many communities will offer subsidies for households that switch to solar thermal water heaters. Nearly the entire cost of the unit plus installation can be absorbed in grants and rebates.

For home heating and cooling, solar thermal panels are needed. They are the device that collect the rays and convert them into a heating source. This energy can be stored for use when weather isn’t great. This makes it possible for varying climate zones to enjoy the benefits of solar thermal power.

To find out about solar thermal systems, a great place to start is the internet. The World Wide Web has hundreds of pages of information on solar thermal power and systems. Everything on how to change to DIY solar thermal systems will be at the touch of a button.
Another method is to contact the current energy supplier in the local area. They will likely have some information on solar thermal power and how to find out more.

With all the talk about global warming and dangers to the environment plus the possibilities of future oil embargoes, it makes good sense to explore alternative energy options. Solar thermal provides a clean way to heat our homes without causing political or environmental damage.