Stay up to date with handy news and offers

\n","image":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/05/GM-UK-Price-Tag-2.png","text":"

Receive offers, marketing and promotions via email or phone from Leads.io about GreenMatch or our brands and affiliates to help you save.

\n","buttonYes":"Yes I'm in!","buttonNo":"No thanks, leave me out!"},"pinterestUrl":"https://www.pinterest.co.uk/greenmatchuk/","privacyCookiesPolicyUrl":"//www.azjdb.com/privacy-policy","covidUrl":null,"googleUa":"UA-43749553-10","businessHours":"

Monday-Friday: 09:00 – 20:00
\nSaturday: 09:00 – 17:00

\n","footerSuffix":null,"translations":{"header":{"titleSuffix":"GreenMatch","menu":"Menu","menuOverview":"Overview","becomeAPartner":"Become a Partner","covid":"COVID-19"},"author":{"email":"Email","linkedin":"Profile on LinkedIn","twitter":"Profile on Twitter","website":"Website","writtenBy":"Written by","contributors":"Contributors:","expertReviewers":"Expert Reviewers:"},"ctaButton":{"button":"Get Quotes Now","description":"Fill in the form in just 1 minute"},"embedCode":{"get":"Get Embed Code","copy":"Copy","customWidth":"Custom width","videoHeading":"If you would like to use this video on your website, use the embed code below:","imageHeading":"If you would like to use this image on your website, use the embed code below:","infographicHeading":"If you would like to use this infographic on your website, use the embed code below:","iframeHeading":"If you would like to use this map on your website, use the embed code below:"},"quoteForm":{"error":"Something went wrong.","errorTryAgain":"Please try again.","errorContactSupport":"Please contact support.","errorCodeInvalid":"Invalid code.","privacyText":"

Your privacy is important to us. By submitting this form, you consent to Leads.io and up to 4 suppliers contacting you by email, web push, telephone (incl. automated calls) and/or SMS with details or quotes for your enquiry and such products, and/or to confirm your product requirements. You have certain rights in relation to your personal data, including the right to object to direct marketing.

\n","privacyCare":"We care about your privacy","privacyCookiesPolicyText":"Privacy policy","footerText":"It only takes 30 seconds\n100% free and with no obligation"},"iframeEmbedCode":{"createdBy":"Created by"},"readMore":{"text":"Read more"},"tableOfContents":{"defaultHeading":"Learn More in Our Guide"},"media":{"testimonials":{"text":"Media & Testimonials"},"mentionedIn":{"text":"Mentioned in"}},"becomePartner":{"title":"Become a Partner","text":"We strive to connect our customers with the right product and supplier. Would you like to be part of GreenMatch?","button":"Apply now"},"becomeAffiliate":{"title":"Become an Affiliate Partner"},"itsThatEasy":{"title":"It's That Easy"},"content":{"lastUpdated":"Last updated"},"footer":{"getInTouch":"Get in Touch","ownedBy":"Owned by Leads.io","disclaimer":"

Disclaimer: GreenMatch aims to provide information to users to help them to lead a more sustainable lifestyle. The content found on GreenMatch and its service are free for all users. We may, however, earn a commission from sales generated through our site. This has no additional cost to the users and does not affect their purchase. We earn a commission from the companies we collaborate with; this helps us run the site and keep our service free. You can read more about us here.

\n"},"moreOnThisTopic":{"title":"More on This Topic"},"relatedArticles":{"title":"Related Articles"},"topPages":{"title":"Top Pages"},"guide":{"title":"Learn More in Our Guide"},"authorArticles":{"more":"View more","close":"Close"},"blog":{"more":"View more","close":"Close","categories":"Categories","search":"Search","noMatch":"Your search did not match any blog posts"},"cookieConsent":{"button":"Change Cookie Settings","modalTitle":"We care about your privacy","modalText":"

You can change your preferred cookie settings below. Read more about our cookie policy here.

\n","modalAlwaysTitle":"Cookies that we always use","modalAlwaysText":"We use cookies that are necessary for the site to work. We also use cookies to monitor and track the performance of our marketing, monitor the use of our website, improve the user experience of our website, and track our website performance. If you want to avoid these cookies, please refer to our cookie policy for information on how to disable cookies in your browser.","modalAdsTitle":"Cookies for targeted ads","modalAdsText":"These cookies are used to track browsing habits and activity. We use this information and share it with third parties to enable us to show you relevant/personalised marketing content.","modalAdsTextOff":"

You have disabled targeted ads cookies and we will not use these cookies to provide you with relevant and personalised marketing content.

\n

If you at an earlier point have opted in for this type of cookies, either at our website or at any other website, you will likely have third party cookies in your browser that is being used to track your browsing behaviour. The following is a list of the third parties we collaborate with and a link to where you can opt opt of their personalised marketing programmes that we and other advertisers are using.

\n\n

You can also visit http://www.youronlinechoices.com/uk/your-ad-choices for more information on common third party cookies used for targeted marketing.

\n","modalButton":"Save and close","overlayTitle":"We use cookies to give you the best browsing experience.","overlayText":"

We and our partners use cookies on our website to improve your browsing experience, personalize content and ads, provide social media features, and analyze our traffic. If you continue interacting we assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on this website. However, you can change your cookie settings at any time at the bottom of this page. Read more about our cookie policy.

\n","overlayButton":"Save and close"},"whyUse":{"title":"Why Use GreenMatch?"},"productGuide":{"back":"Back"},"page404":{"title":"Sorry, We Can't Find That Page","topText":"
\n

…something went wrong or you might have followed an old link to a page that doesn’t exist anymore.

\n

Were you looking for any of these by any chance?

\n\n

Need help? Please send an email to info@greenmatch.co.uk and we’ll do everything we can to help.

\n
\n","bottomText":"

This page might be broken, but we are here to save the day!
\nDid you know that you can get up to 4 quotes from local renewable energy installers by using GreenMatch?
\nClick on the button below and start exploring your options!

\n","button":"Get Renewable Energy Quotes"},"verifyModal":{"title":"Success!","text":"Your phone number is now verified. We will forward your request to installers who can help you. If we need more information, we will contact you by phone to complete your request."}},"media":{"testimonials":[{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/01/wind-power.png","alt":"","width":135,"height":32},{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/01/gtm.png","alt":"","width":66,"height":32},{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/01/green-builder.png","alt":"","width":135,"height":24}],"mentionedIn":[{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/04/guardian.png","alt":"The Guardian logo","width":99,"height":40},{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/04/harvard.png","alt":"Harvard University logo","width":116,"height":40},{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/04/independent.png","alt":"Independent logo","width":190,"height":40},{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/04/space.png","alt":"SPACE.com logo","width":96,"height":40},{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/04/forbes.png","alt":"Forbes logo","width":90,"height":40}]},"thatEasyPoints":[{"title":"Request Quotes","text":"Describe your requirements for the product in our form."},{"title":"Match","text":"We will match your request with suitable suppliers."},{"title":"Receive Quotes","text":"You will receive up to 4 quotes tailored to your needs."}],"footerBadges":[{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/01/uk-blog-awards.png","alt":""},{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/01/build-magazine.png","alt":""},{"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/01/sme-news-greenmatch.png","alt":""}],"buttonUrl404":"//www.azjdb.com/green-energy","image404":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/02/404_image.png","logoCondensed":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/02/logo-condensed.svg","quoteFormMarketingConsent":true},"themeSettings":{"colourBase200":"#9ec73d","colourBase400":"#72a201","colourBase600":"#628b01","colourBase800":"#4e6f01","backgroundImage":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2023/02/background.svg","interactiveChartH3":"#444444","interactiveChartGridline":"#dddddd","interactiveChartMain":"#9ec73d","interactiveChartAccent":"#f56a00","interactiveChartSecondary":"#3f99de"},"menus":{"headerMenu":{"name":"header","items":[{"name":"Solar Panels","url":"//www.azjdb.com/solar-energy/solar-panels","subMenu":[{"name":"Solar Panel Installation Cost","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2014/08/what-is-the-installation-cost-for-solar-panels","subMenu":null},{"name":"Solar Panel Grants","url":"//www.azjdb.com/solar-energy/solar-panels/solar-panel-grants","subMenu":null},{"name":"Solar Water Heating","url":"//www.azjdb.com/solar-energy/solar-water-heating","subMenu":null},{"name":"Commercial Solar Panels","url":"//www.azjdb.com/solar-energy/solar-panels/commercial","subMenu":null},{"name":"Solar Battery","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2018/07/solar-battery-storage-system-cost","subMenu":null},{"name":"Solar Thermal","url":"//www.azjdb.com/solar-energy/solar-thermal","subMenu":null}]},{"name":"Heat Pumps","url":"//www.azjdb.com/heat-pump","subMenu":[{"name":"Air Source Heat Pumps","url":"//www.azjdb.com/heat-pump/air-source-heat-pump","subMenu":null},{"name":"Ground Source Heat Pumps","url":"//www.azjdb.com/heat-pump/ground-source-heat-pumps-in-the-uk","subMenu":null},{"name":"Air to Water Heat Pump","url":"//www.azjdb.com/heat-pump/air-to-water-heat-pump","subMenu":null},{"name":"Air to Air Heat Pump","url":"//www.azjdb.com/heat-pump/air-to-air-heat-pump","subMenu":null},{"name":"Water Source Heat Pump","url":"//www.azjdb.com/heat-pump/water-source-heat-pump","subMenu":null},{"name":"Best Air Source Heat Pump Manufacturers","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/best-air-source-heat-pump-manufacturers","subMenu":null},{"name":"Heat Pump Grants","url":"//www.azjdb.com/heat-pump/heat-pump-grant","subMenu":null}]},{"name":"Boilers","url":"//www.azjdb.com/boilers","subMenu":[{"name":"Electric Combi Boilers","url":"//www.azjdb.com/boilers/combi-boilers/electric-combi-boilers","subMenu":null},{"name":"New Boiler Cost","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2018/08/new-boiler-cost","subMenu":null},{"name":"Boiler Replacement","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/boiler-replacement","subMenu":null},{"name":"Combi Boiler Prices","url":"//www.azjdb.com/boilers/combi-boilers/combi-boiler-prices","subMenu":null},{"name":"Electric Boilers","url":"//www.azjdb.com/boilers/electric","subMenu":null},{"name":"Biomass Boiler Costs","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2015/02/how-much-does-a-biomass-boiler-cost","subMenu":null}]},{"name":"Windows","url":"//www.azjdb.com/windows","subMenu":[{"name":"uPVC Windows","url":"//www.azjdb.com/windows/upvc","subMenu":null},{"name":"uPVC Windows Manufacturers","url":"//www.azjdb.com/windows/upvc/manufacturers","subMenu":null},{"name":"Double Glazed Windows","url":"//www.azjdb.com/windows/double-glazing","subMenu":null},{"name":"Best Double Glazing Company","url":"//www.azjdb.com/windows/double-glazing/companies","subMenu":null},{"name":"Window Prices","url":"//www.azjdb.com/windows/prices","subMenu":null},{"name":"Window Grants","url":"//www.azjdb.com/windows/grants","subMenu":null}]},{"name":"Doors","url":"//www.azjdb.com/doors","subMenu":[{"name":"uPVC Doors","url":"//www.azjdb.com/doors/upvc","subMenu":null},{"name":"Double Glazed Doors","url":"//www.azjdb.com/doors/double-glazed","subMenu":null},{"name":"Composite Doors","url":"//www.azjdb.com/doors/composite","subMenu":null}]},{"name":"Conservatory","url":"//www.azjdb.com/conservatory","subMenu":[{"name":"Conservatory Prices","url":"//www.azjdb.com/conservatory/cost","subMenu":[{"name":"Fully Fitted Conservatory Prices","url":"//www.azjdb.com/conservatory/cost/fully-fitted","subMenu":null}]},{"name":"Conservatory Companies Near Me","url":"//www.azjdb.com/conservatory/companies","subMenu":null},{"name":"Lean to Conservatory","url":"//www.azjdb.com/conservatory/lean-to","subMenu":null},{"name":"Replacement Conservatory","url":"//www.azjdb.com/conservatory/replacement","subMenu":null}]},{"name":"More","url":"","subMenu":[{"name":"Blog","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog","subMenu":null},{"name":"About Us","url":"//www.azjdb.com/about-us","subMenu":null},{"name":"Scholarships","url":"//www.azjdb.com/scholarships","subMenu":null},{"name":"Become a Partner","url":"//www.azjdb.com/supplier-sign-up","subMenu":null},{"name":"Contributor Guidelines","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/contributor-guidelines","subMenu":null}]}]},"footer1Menu":{"name":"Popular Articles","items":[{"name":"How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/how-many-solar-panels-do-i-need","subMenu":null},{"name":"Pros & Cons of Solar Energy","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2014/08/5-advantages-and-5-disadvantages-of-solar-energy","subMenu":null},{"name":"Home Improvements That Add Value","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2020/09/home-improvements","subMenu":null},{"name":"Running Cost of Heat Pumps","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2014/08/the-running-costs-of-heat-pumps","subMenu":null},{"name":"Renewable Heat Incentive","url":"//www.azjdb.com/green-energy/grants/rhi","subMenu":null},{"name":"Gas Boiler Ban","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/gas-boiler-ban","subMenu":null}]},"footer2Menu":{"name":"About Us","items":[{"name":"About GreenMatch","url":"//www.azjdb.com/about-us","subMenu":null},{"name":"Authors and Contributors","url":"//www.azjdb.com/authors","subMenu":null},{"name":"GreenMatch Scholarships","url":"//www.azjdb.com/scholarships","subMenu":null},{"name":"Privacy Policy","url":"//www.azjdb.com/privacy-policy","subMenu":null},{"name":"Cookies","url":"//www.azjdb.com/cookie-policy","subMenu":null},{"name":"User Terms","url":"//www.azjdb.com/user-terms","subMenu":null},{"name":"Legal Notice","url":"//www.azjdb.com/legal-notice","subMenu":null}]}},"hasCookieConsentCookie":false,"title":"Differences Between Solar PV and Solar Thermal | GreenMatch","yoastHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\t\n\n","template":"content-and-sidebar.php","contentTitle":"Differences Between Solar Photovoltaics and Solar Thermal","content":"\n
\n

Differences Between Solar Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal

\n
\n\n\n\n
\n

The Sun is the ultimate energy provider. The development of the renewable energy market is, to a large extent, based on that fact. Most of the green technologies currently operating harvest solar energy, directly or indirectly. Among indirect solar energy sources, wind, low grade geothermal (used in ground source heat pump systems), tidal and wave are either being largely employed and (wind) well established (low grade geothermal) or under development (tidal and wave).

\n\n\n\n

Direct solar energy source consist of solar rays reaching the atmosphere. They can be collected by two different technologies: solar photovoltaics (also known as solar PV) and solar thermal systems. In this article, we’ll see how they work and what the differences between them are.

\n\n\n\n

If you’re considering investing in solar energy, it’s crucial to understand the differences between solar photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. Once you have a clear understanding of how each system works, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which one is right for your home.

\n\n\n\n

If you’re already keen to take the next step and talk to professionals, we recommend requesting quotes from multiple installers. This way you’ll have a much better idea of your options and how much it’s worth.

\n\n\n\n

Our team at GreenMatch can help get your started by providing you with up to 3 free quotes from installers near you. Simply click the button below to get your free no-obligation quotes now and select the best deal.

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Technology

\n\n\n\n

The core difference between solar PV and solar thermal can be found in their working principles. Solar PV is based on the photovoltaic effect, by which a photon (the basic unit of light) impacting a surface made of a special material generates the release of an electron. Solar thermal, on the other hand, uses sunlight to heat a fluid (depending on the particular application, it can be water or other fluid).

\n\n\n\n

The photovoltaic effect only takes place in a reduced number of materials, called semiconductors (such as silicon -monocrystalline, polycrystalline and amorphous- and cadmium telluride), that, after specific chemical procedures , allow the generation of an electric current when exposed to light. Those semiconductors are shaped into thin layers that conform the core element of solar cells, the basic element of a solar PV system, that produce a direct current.

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Solar cells are integrated into larger structures known as solar panels, where the desired values of current and voltage can be achieved. For grid- connected systems (that account for a large portion of the market), the use of an inverter is necessary (to convert DC generated by cells into AC, used in the grid).

\n\n\n\n

The working principle of solar thermal systems is far less sophisticated, but as useful for the generation of consumable energy as the photovoltaic effect. It consists on the direct heating of water (or other fluids) by sunlight. That energy conversion takes place at different devices depending on the range of temperatures at which the working fluid is being heated.

\n\n\n\n

Low and medium temperature collectors can be flat plate panels or evacuated tubes. High temperature collectors consist of concentrated solar systems, such as parabolic trough, Fresnel reflectors, dish Stirling and solar towers.

\n\n\n
\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Use

\n\n\n\n

Regarding the use of those technologies, the first step is to separate small, household solar systems from power plants, in both PV and thermal.The domestic utilization of them is discussed below.

\n\n\n\n

As to power plants, PV and thermal systems share the production of electricity as their aim. While PV systems generate that electricity directly from solar energy, thermal systems heat a fluid(water, oil, sats, air, etc.) that will run a steam engine, gas turbine or similar. That electricity is transferred to the grid, as AC and with the required value of voltage.

\n\n\n\n

In the case of photovoltaic power stations, the capacity of the largest ones is above 500 MW, whereas that of the largest thermal power stations is lower than 400 MW. Both types are experiencing a rapid growth in many parts of the world, with many are under construction and more planned.

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Residential PV installations produce DC electricity directly from solar energy. There are two types of residential PV systems: grid-connected and “off grid” or “stand-alone”. The first ones offer the possibility of feed the grid (which is being encouraged by economic incentives) through an inverter. The latter ones are completely dedicated to self-consumption (lighting, heating, water heating, etc.) and require the use of battery banks to separate consumption from generation.

\n\n\n\n

Residential solar thermal systems’ main use is water heating. They usually work combined with central heating systems (gas or fuel) oil, that start working when temperature in the water tank fall below a certain value. Thus, this systems can provide hot water all year round even in cool climates. Alternatively, thermodynamic systems can heat water using the built-in compressor, should you use up all the water; this way, you can establish a fossil-independent system. Solar thermal systems can also be used for space heating purposes (this is relatively common in countries such as Sweden).

\n\n\n
\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Advantages and Disadvantages

\n\n\n\n

Some of the most important advantages of solar PV:

\n\n\n\n
  • Regarding power plants, PV design is much simpler than that of thermal. A PV power station is formed of many solar panels connected in parallel and in serie. On the other hand, electricity generation using solar thermal technology implies the transmission of energy from a hot fluid to a generator. That has led to different and complex designs, some of them mentioned above.
  • At a smaller scale, domestic PV systems are more versatile than thermal systems, since they can power many appliances (solar thermal is limited to space and water heating). They also have a larger lifespan.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Some of the most outstanding advantages of solar thermal are:

\n\n\n\n
  • Its possibility to store the energy generated, since thermal power plants don’t convert solar energy directly into electricity and domestic thermal systems always include a water tank where heat can be stored. PV systems, on the contrary, suffer from an inherent intermittency that stems from sunlight patterns. The storage of electricity is normally not considered an option, due to energy losses that make it really inefficient. That results in a more uniform and reliable supply of electricity by thermal plants.
  • Solar thermal technology for domestic use is much less complicated than solar PV. It’s important to point out that the energy generation for residential uses vary from thermal to PV systems. Thermal generate heat, while PV electricity. Thermal panels are also more space efficient.
\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Whether you opt for solar PV or solar thermal panels, you can drastically reduce your energy bills and do your part to combat climate change. So why wait?

\n\n\n\n

Click the button below and get up to 3 solar panel quotes from reliable installers available in your area. Our service is completely free and you’re under no obligation to accept any of the offers you receive.

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\n
\n","lastUpdated":"13 April 2023","topBanner":null,"pageHeader":{"title":"SAVE hundreds per year on your energy bills by installing Solar Panels!","quote_form":{"steps":[{"title":"Solar Guide","fields":[{"title":"Which type of solar quotes do you need?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please choose","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"ChooseProduct","choices":"27 : Solar Panels + Battery\r\n27 : Solar Panels\r\n284 : Solar Battery","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"Step 2","fields":[{"title":"What is your preferred time of installation?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please choose","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"timescale","choices":"asap : As soon as possible\r\n1month : Within 1 month\r\n3months : Within 3 months","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"Step 3","fields":[{"title":"Which of these best describes your home?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please specify your type of house","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"propertytype","choices":"house : House\r\nflat : Flat\r\nbungalow : Bungalow\r\ncommercial : Commercial property","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"Step 4","fields":[{"title":"Property ownership?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please choose","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"propertyowner","choices":"owner : Owner\r\ntenant : Tenant\r\nlandlord : Landlord","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"Step 5","fields":[{"title":"Which direction does your roof face?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please choose","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"roofdirection","choices":"1 : North\r\n3 : North West\r\n2 : North East\r\n4 : East\r\n5 : South\r\n6 : South East\r\n7 : South West\r\n8 : West\r\n9 : Unsure","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":true,"dependency_system_key":"ChooseProduct","dependency_values":"27"},{"title":"Step 6","fields":[{"title":"What is the pitch of your roof?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please choose","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"roofstyle","choices":"1 : Pitched/Angled\r\n2 : Flat\r\n4 : Unsure\r\n3 : Other\r\n","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"Step 7","fields":[{"title":"What material is your roof?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please choose","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"roofmaterial","choices":"1 : Tiled\r\n2 : Metal\r\n3 : Wood\r\n4 : Other\r\n5 : Unsure","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"Step 8","fields":[{"title":"Is there any shading that impacts your roof?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please choose","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"shading","choices":"1 : No\r\n3 : Yes, nearby is a tree\r\n2 : Yes, nearby is a building\r\n4 : Yes, other than a tree or a building","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"Step 9: windows on roof","fields":[{"title":"Are there any windows on your roof?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please choose","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"windowsonroof","choices":"1 : Yes\r\n2 : No","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"step 10: how many windows","fields":[{"title":"How many windows are there?","option":"radio_sliding","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please enter the amount of windows","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"howmanywindows","choices":"1-2 : 1-2\r\n3-4 : 3-4\r\nmore than 4 : more than 4","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":true,"dependency_system_key":"windowsonroof","dependency_values":"1"},{"title":"Personlig info 1","fields":[{"title":"First name","option":"text","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"/^.+$/","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please enter your first name.","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"First name","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"firstname","choices":"","html":"","tooltip":""},{"title":"Last name","option":"text","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"/^.+$/","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please enter your last name.","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"Last name","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"lastname","choices":"","html":"","tooltip":""},{"title":"Address","option":"autocomplete_address","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"/^.+$/","validation_regex_postcode":"/^(?:[A-Za-z]{1,2}[0-9]{1,2})(?:[A-Za-z])?(?: ?[0-9][A-Za-z]{2})?$/","validation_message":"Please click on the get address button","validation_message_postcode":"Please enter a valid UK postcode","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"Postcode","field_title":"Address","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"address","choices":"","html":"","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""},{"title":"Personlig info 2","fields":[{"title":"Email","option":"text","type":"email","required":true,"validation_regex":"/^[A-Za-z0-9._%+-]+@[A-Za-z0-9.-]+\\.[A-Za-z]{2,4}$/","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please enter your e-mail (e.g. name@example.com).","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"Email","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"email","choices":"","html":"","tooltip":""},{"title":"Phone number","option":"text","type":"tel","required":true,"validation_regex":"/^(\\d\\s?){9,11}$/","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"Please enter your phone number without country code.","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"Phone number","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"phone","choices":"","html":"","tooltip":""},{"title":"Phone notice","option":"html","type":"text","required":true,"validation_regex":"","validation_regex_postcode":"","validation_message":"","validation_message_postcode":"","yes_label":"","postcode_field_title":"","field_title":"","no_label":"","placeholder":"","system_key":"","choices":"","html":"

This is needed to confirm your enquiry and to connect you with the right installers.

","tooltip":""}],"dependency_enabled":false,"dependency_system_key":"","dependency_values":""}],"title":"Solar Guide","product_id":"27","website_id":"296300","header":"Receive up to 4 FREE quotes","mobile_header":"Answer a few simple questions and receive up to 4 FREE quotes.","label_back":"Back","label_next":"Next","label_first":"Next step","label_submit":"Get Quotes Now","label_nudging_text":"Fill in the form in just 1 minute","completed_header":"Thank you for using GreenMatch","completed_content":"
\n

What happens next?

\n
    \n
  1. We will contact you within minutes after you have filled out our form, and that is the beginning of matching you with trusted installers from our network.
  2. \n
  3. Be prepared to receive a phone call from Greenmatch to confirm your information.
  4. \n
  5. Based on your information, we will match you with relevant suppliers who will contact you directly with their respective quotes.
  6. \n
\n

If you want to speed up the process, you can call us at 0330 818 7480
\n(Opening hours: Sunday- Friday 9:00-20:00, Saturday 09:00-17:00.)

\n
\n

Frequently bought together

\n
\"HeatHeat pump \"Doors\"Doors \"Windows\"Windows
\n","country":"","language":"","timezone":"","leads_service":"sherlock"},"selling_point":42511,"type":"quote","subtitle":"","media_type":"testimonials","selling_points":[{"icon":{"ID":62858,"id":62858,"title":"checkmark","filename":"checkmark.svg","filesize":345,"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","link":"//www.azjdb.com/selling-points/sp-solar-panel-grants-1/checkmark","alt":"Checkmark","author":"0","description":"","caption":"","name":"checkmark","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":43402,"date":"2023-01-13 10:05:42","modified":"2023-01-13 10:28:45","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image/svg+xml","type":"image","subtype":"svg+xml","icon":"//www.azjdb.com/wp-includes/images/media/default.png","width":1,"height":1,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":300,"medium_large":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":1,"large":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","large-width":1024,"large-height":1024,"1536x1536":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","1536x1536-width":1,"1536x1536-height":1,"2048x2048":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","2048x2048-width":1,"2048x2048-height":1}},"show_icon_on_mobile":true,"headline":"Save hours of research time","description":"Get up to 4 quotes by filling in only 1 quick form"},{"icon":{"ID":62858,"id":62858,"title":"checkmark","filename":"checkmark.svg","filesize":345,"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","link":"//www.azjdb.com/selling-points/sp-solar-panel-grants-1/checkmark","alt":"Checkmark","author":"0","description":"","caption":"","name":"checkmark","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":43402,"date":"2023-01-13 10:05:42","modified":"2023-01-13 10:28:45","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image/svg+xml","type":"image","subtype":"svg+xml","icon":"//www.azjdb.com/wp-includes/images/media/default.png","width":1,"height":1,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":300,"medium_large":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":1,"large":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","large-width":1024,"large-height":1024,"1536x1536":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","1536x1536-width":1,"1536x1536-height":1,"2048x2048":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","2048x2048-width":1,"2048x2048-height":1}},"show_icon_on_mobile":true,"headline":"Save up to £608 per year","description":"Slash your energy bills by installing solar panels"},{"icon":{"ID":62858,"id":62858,"title":"checkmark","filename":"checkmark.svg","filesize":345,"url":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","link":"//www.azjdb.com/selling-points/sp-solar-panel-grants-1/checkmark","alt":"Checkmark","author":"0","description":"","caption":"","name":"checkmark","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":43402,"date":"2023-01-13 10:05:42","modified":"2023-01-13 10:28:45","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image/svg+xml","type":"image","subtype":"svg+xml","icon":"//www.azjdb.com/wp-includes/images/media/default.png","width":1,"height":1,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":300,"medium_large":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":1,"large":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","large-width":1024,"large-height":1024,"1536x1536":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","1536x1536-width":1,"1536x1536-height":1,"2048x2048":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/checkmark.svg","2048x2048-width":1,"2048x2048-height":1}},"show_icon_on_mobile":true,"headline":"Save the planet","description":"We’ve helped over 500,000 homeowners reduce their carbon footprint"}]},"breadcrumbs":{"0":{"name":"GreenMatch","url":"//www.azjdb.com/"},"1":{"name":"Blog","url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog"},"4":{"name":"Differences Between Solar Photovoltaics and Solar Thermal","url":null}},"authors":[],"relatedArticles":[{"id":29222,"url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2014/06/solar-panels-are-they-worth-it","image":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/domestic_solar_panel_system.jpg","title":"Solar Panels Are They Worth It"},{"id":29223,"url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2014/07/7-reasons-why-you-should-use-solar-power","image":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/solceller1.jpg","title":"7 Reasons Why You Should Use Solar Power"},{"id":29245,"url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2014/07/how-long-will-a-solar-panel-take-to-pay-for-itself-in-the-north-of-uk","image":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/uklupa.jpg","title":"How Long Will a Solar Panel Take to Pay for Itself in the North of UK?"},{"id":29234,"url":"//www.azjdb.com/blog/2014/07/is-the-uk-sunny-enough-for-solar-panels-to-work","image":"https://cdn.greenmatch.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/2/2022/10/telephonebox.jpg","title":"Is the UK Sunny Enough for Solar Panels to Work?"}],"subPages":[],"topPages":[],"hideMoreOnThisTopic":false,"hideItsThatEasy":false,"hideBecomeAPartner":false,"hideContentHeader":false,"guideLinks":[]},"url":"/blog/2016/04/differences-between-solar-photovoltaics-and-solar-thermal","version":"5a7eb0811636e7b3f944e37365ac87f0"}">
在每年节省几百你的能源账单,通过安装太阳能电池板!www188bet.com188bet亚洲体育平台
回答几个简单的问题和接收4免费报价。

你需要哪种类型的太阳能报价?

1/12
媒体与推荐
最后更新:2023年4月13日

太阳能光伏发电和太阳能热发电之间的区别

太阳是最终的能源提供者。可再生能源市场的发展,在很大程度上,基于这一事实。目前大多数的绿色技术操作获取太阳能,直接或间接地。在间接的太阳能能源、风能、低品位地热(在地源热泵系统中使用),潮汐和波浪是主要工作,(风)良好(低品位地热)或正在开发(潮汐和波浪)。

直接太阳能源包括太阳能射线到达大气层。它们可以收集到两种不同的技术:太阳能光伏发电(也称为太阳能光伏)和太阳能热系统。在本文中,我们将看到它们是如何工作的以及它们之间的区别是什么。

如果你正在考虑投资于太阳能,至关重要的是要了解太阳能光伏发电和太阳能热发电系统之间的区别。一旦你有了一个清晰的理解每个系统是如何工作的,你会更好地做出明智决定哪一个是适合你的家。

如果你已经迈出下一步,跟专业人士,我们建议从多个安装要求报价。这样你会有一个更好的主意你的选项和值得多少钱。

我们的团队在GreenMatch可以帮助你开始为你提供3免费引用你附近的安装程序。只需单击下面的按钮让你没有义务免费报价,选择最好的交易。

帮你最好的交易
快速比较4免费报价
  • 引用当地工程师
  • 财务付款可用
  • 每年节省高达£608
现在就报价

只需要30秒

地球地球图标
优化你的家和拯救地球
打电话给我们报价
我们将给你最好的交易

技术

太阳能光伏和太阳能热发电的核心区别可以在他们的工作原理。太阳能光伏是光生伏打效应的基础上,由一个光子(光)的基本单元影响表面由特殊材料制成的生成电子的释放。太阳热能,另一方面,使用阳光来加热液体(取决于特定的应用程序,它可以在水或其他液体)。

光生伏打效应只发生在一个减少数量的材料,称为半导体(如矽单晶、多晶和非晶态,碲化镉),,在特定的化学过程,允许电流暴露在光的一代。这些半导体塑造成薄层,符合太阳能电池的核心元素,太阳能光伏系统的基本元素,产生直流电。

阅读更多:太阳能

太阳能电池集成到更大的结构被称为太阳能电池板,可以实现所需的电流和电压值。www188bet.com188bet亚洲体育平台电网连接的系统(也占很大一部分的市场份额),逆变器的使用是必要的(细胞产生的直流转换为交流,在网格中使用)。

太阳能热系统的工作原理是更复杂,但是作为消费品的生成有用的能量光生伏打效应。它包括直接加热的水(或其他液体)通过阳光。能量转换发生在不同设备的范围取决于温度的工作流体被加热。

中低温度收藏家可以平板板或疏散管。高温收藏家由聚光太阳能系统,如抛物线槽、菲涅耳反射镜,菜斯特灵和太阳能塔。

使用

关于这些技术的使用,第一步是单独的小,从发电厂、家庭太阳能系统PV和热。下面讨论的国内利用他们。

至于发电厂、光伏和热系统共享生产的电力作为他们的目标。而直接从太阳能光伏系统产生电力,热力系统热流体(水、油、sat、空气等)运行一个蒸汽发动机,燃气轮机或类似。电力传输到电网,AC和所需的电压值。

在光伏电站的情况下,能力最大的是超过500兆瓦,而最大的热发电站是低于400兆瓦。两种类型正在经历一个快速增长在世界的许多地方,许多在建和计划。

阅读更多:太阳能光电板

住宅光伏直接从太阳能设施产生直流电力。有两种类型的住宅光伏系统:短时间和“网格”或“独立”。第一批提供饲料的可能性网格(这是由经济激励措施鼓励)通过一个逆变器。后者是完全致力于self-consumption(照明、采暖、热水等),需要使用电池银行从一代独立的消费。

住宅太阳能热系统的主要用途是热水。他们通常工作结合中央供暖系统(气体或燃料)油,开始工作,当水箱的温度低于一定值。因此,本系统可以提供热水甚至一年到头都在凉爽的气候。另外,热力学系统可以加热水使用内置的压缩机,应该使用所有的水;通过这种方式,您可以建立一个fossil-independent系统。太阳能热系统也可以用于空间加热(这是相对常见的在瑞典等国家)。

优点和缺点

一些最重要的优势太阳能光伏:

  • 关于电站,光伏设计得多更简单的于热。许多太阳能电池板的光伏电站形成连接在平行和联赛。www188bet.com188bet亚洲体育平台另一方面,使用太阳能热发电技术意味着从热流体的传播能量发生器。导致不同的和复杂的设计,其中一些上面提到的。
  • 在规模较小,国内光伏系统更多样化的比热系统,因为他们可以权力很多电器(太阳热能有限空间和热水)。他们也有更大的寿命
阅读更多:118金宝app

一些最突出的优点太阳能热是:

  • 它的可能性商店产生的能量,因为火力发电厂不将太阳能直接转换为电能和国内热系统总是包含一个水箱的热量可以存储的地方。光伏系统,相反,遭受一种固有的间歇性源于阳光模式。存储的电能通常不被认为是一种选择,由于能量损失,使其真正效率低下。结果在一个更加统一和可靠的供电的电厂。
  • 国内太阳能热技术使用得多那么复杂太阳能光伏。重要的是要指出,住宅的能源使用不同热光伏系统。热产生热量,而光伏发电。热板也更多的空间效率。

你是否选择太阳能光伏太阳能热板,你可以大大减少能源费用,你的应对气候变化的一部分。为什么等待?

点击下面的按钮,得到3太阳能电池板引用可靠安装中可用。我们的服务是完全免费的,你没有义务接受任何的提供你收到。

帮你最好的交易
快速比较4免费报价
  • 引用当地工程师
  • 财务付款可用
  • 每年节省高达£608
现在就报价

只需要30秒

地球地球图标
优化你的家和拯救地球
打电话给我们报价
我们将给你最好的交易

它是那么容易
1
请求报价
描述你的要求的产品形式。
2
匹配
我们将匹配你的要求与合适的供应商。
3
收到报价
你将收到4报价根据您的需要。
成为合作伙伴
成为合作伙伴我们努力为客户提供合适的产品和供应商联系。你想成为GreenMatch的一部分吗?