The sun is a powerful and inexhaustible source of energy. Although we often think of solar energy as generating electricity with solar panels, the sun also offers excellent opportunities to heat our homes and water in a sustainable and cost-efficient way. Heating with solar energy is a smart investment in your comfort and the environment.

How does solar heating work?

There are several ways to use the sun’s heat for heating:

• Solar collectors (thermal solar panels): These are panels that are specially designed to convert sunlight into heat. A fluid (usually a water-glycol mixture) flows through the collectors and is heated by the sun. This warm fluid is then led to a storage tank, where the heat is transferred to the tap water and/or heating system of the house.
• Solar boiler: A solar boiler is a system that uses solar heat to heat tap water. It consists of solar collectors on the roof and an insulated storage tank. The sun heats the water in the collectors, which is then pumped to the storage tank. A post-heater (for example a central heating boiler) can be used to heat the water further if the sun does not provide enough heat.
• PVT panels (PhotoVoltaic-Thermal): These are hybrid panels that generate both electricity and heat. They combine the technology of solar panels and solar collectors. The heat that is generated under the solar cells is dissipated and can be used to heat water or the home.
• Passive solar energy: This includes design strategies and construction techniques that make the most of the sun to naturally heat a building. This includes building orientation, large south-facing windows, thermal mass in floors and walls, and shading to prevent overheating in the summer.

The advantages of heating with solar energy:

• Sustainable and environmentally friendly: Solar energy is a clean and inexhaustible source of energy. Using solar heat reduces greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to a better environment.
• Lower energy costs: By heating with solar energy you can save considerably on your energy costs for hot water and heating. The sun provides free energy, which reduces your dependence on gas or electricity.
• Increased comfort: A well-designed solar heating system can ensure a comfortable and constant temperature in the home and always sufficient hot water.
• Independence: With your own solar heating system you become less dependent on the fluctuating prices of fossil fuels.
• Increasing the value of your home: A home with a sustainable solar heating system is often more attractive to potential buyers and can increase the value of your home.
• subsidies and financial benefits: In many cases, subsidies and other financial schemes are available for the installation of solar heating systems, making the investment more attractive.