"Most of the energy we use in our homes and cars come from "fossil fuels" such as oil, coal and gas. Even electricity is mainly generated by burning fossil fuels at the power stations.
When we burn fossil fuels, large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) are released into the atmosphere, wrapping around the planet to create a greenhouse type effect: hence the term "greenhouse gas".
Solar thermal energy is a natural resource, which can be harnessed to reduce the environmental impact of heating water.
The installation of a solar thermal water heating system can provide an average 60% -70% saving on the energy used to heat water; this combined with a reduction in CO2 emissions; will make a real contribution towards protecting the environment.
Once installed you can have year on year of free hot water and a Government grant is available for anyone having an installation fitted by an accredited installer.
Will it work in the UK?
Contrary to popular belief, the UK has a plentiful supply of solar energy; an average domestic system can provide in the region of 2000 Kwh free energy per annum.
Modern solar systems collect both direct and diffused energy from the sun and will work even on cloudy days. Ideally the panels need to be sited on a southerly facing roof, although alternative options are available.
During the summer months, virtually all of the domestic hot water requirement can be supplied from the solar system; in spring and autumn a 50% gain can be achieved, but even in the winter 25% or more can still be delivered from solar energy.
Solar energy is therefore a cost effective option as a renewable energy source for heating hot water."
In January 2009 Colin sent us an update on a knew consumer protection scheme regarding renewable energy products.
"People who are considering the installation of renewable energy products into their homes, to combat rising energy costs will be pleased to know, the Government has launched a new consumer protection scheme.
Known as the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). The primary aim of the MCS is to provide consumers with confidence and protection by guaranteeing that microgeneration products and installers who carry the certification logo meet, and will continue to meet, robust quality standards.
The MCS underpins the Low Carbon Building programme which offers UK government grants for installation of microgeneration. Grants are only offered to UK householders and other qualifying applicants who use MCS certified products and installers.
Llani Solar based in Llanidloes has become one of the first in the country to receive the new accreditation for both Solar water heating and Biomass (wood fuel) systems.
The MCS is designed to raise standards, protect consumers and to offer information through the certification "logo". This is the first product and installer certification scheme to cover all the microgeneration technologies.
Consumers considering any form of renewable energy should ensure they choose a company that is accredited with this scheme to be eligible for the grant.
Article by Colin R Simmons
