FRIDAY, FEB 3, 2023: NOTE TO FILE
Module 4-8
Photovoltaic and Solar-Thermal Energy
There are two main ways solar energy can be delivered and captured:
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Photovoltaic panels, which generate electricity by the conversion of the sun’s energy falling on the panel. This energy can be used as a “stand alone” system, which will require battery storage for the hours of darkness, or as a supplement to a public or private grid supply.
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Solar thermal panels, which collect the sun’s energy in a “plate” through which water flows, or through the use of mirrors focussed on tubes filled with water. This system supplies hot water to the building, both for preheating water for a space heating system or for supplying domestic hot water for showers and washing. Like the PV panel, the system can be “stand alone” or can supplement the supply from a different heat source.
Energy Saving Trust is a non-profit organisation that provides free impartial advice to help you save money and fight climate change by reducing carbon dioxide emissions from your home.
Both designs of panel have no moving parts for the collection of solar energy. They are robust, long lasting and require little or no maintenance. The solar thermal panels are, of course, connected to a plumbing system, which will have pumps and valves.
Module 4, lesson 9
