In contrast to photovoltaic (PV) energy, solar thermal systems turn the sun’s radiation into heat and then transfer that heat to air or water. This process is facilitated by a solar collector.
Photo Credit: Erneuerbare Energien
There are multiple types of solar thermal collectors: evacuated tube, batch systems, air collectors and flat-plate collectors. These can be mounted to a roof or wall to provide solar water heating and space heating for your home.
Unglazed flat-plate collectors are usually used to heat swimming pools. Learn more about using solar thermal energy to heat your pool.
Note that since solar thermal collectors are more efficient than PV panels, the payback period for solar thermal systems is much shorter.
