Solar Collectors &
Heat Storage
Service and
space heating water in the 120°F to 160°F range can be
provided by flat-plate solar collectors (which incorporate glazed
insulated boxes) or evacuated tube systems, which are even better
insulated, with more efficient absorbers.
Both technologies
are well developed, and can offset 50% to 70% of the heating load,
with simple paybacks of three to fifteen years, depending upon
the displaced fuel. The potential to off-set peak generation is
high when replacing or supplementing electric heat.
Medium- and
high-temperature solar water-heating systems require annual maintenance
and inspection for most efficient operation and energy cost savings.
Capital costs
can be reduced with low- interest loans from the Federal Million
Solar Roofs program, or with loans and grants available under
the California Energy Technologies Advancement Program (ETAP).
Cautions
- For space
heating or process water heating, large water storage volumes
will affect structural requirements.
- The Solar
Rating Certification Corporation (SRCC) or another national
certification agency should certify equipment and systems.
- Solar systems
should be properly commissioned to ensure energy savings.
