Solar Water Heating is a system for heating water using energy from the sun. Solar energy is collected by a panel. The panel would need to be placed on a southerly facing roof or two roofs facing east and west. It is connected by pipes to a hot water storage device such as a hot water cylinder. Systems can be installed for domestic hot water, swimming pools, caravans and similar applications.

The solar water heater relies on radiation not direct sunlight so it works throughout the year, however, in winter you will still need an existing hot water system to provide most of your hot water needs. In autumn, spring and summer the system should provide enough hot water without needing to use the boiler.

View diagram of how solar water heating works

This is currently the most cost-effective, affordable renewable energy technology for housing. It is suitable for urban and rural environments. Used and sized correctly for the household, it can provide 50 per cent of hot water needs over a year.

The Low Carbon Building Programme will provide at least 50 per cent funding towards the cost of the unit and installation.

Sanctuary Housing Group Projects:

We are pleased to confirm that the Beth Johnson subsidiary have installed solar domestic hot water heating systems to two properties in Wednesbury and one in West Bromwich.

It is anticipated that this system will provide almost 100 per cent of the hot water needs during the summer and an average of 50 to 60 per cent over the whole year. The work was completed in December 2006 by Sureway.

Further installations are being proposed by the South West subsidiary. We will keep you updated on the progress in the South West and results from Beth Johnson.

Renewable Energy links: