Second Independent Report on Solar Heating Performance Published
Further results from the most rigorous UK test of any solar water heating system
February 2009, Cambridge, UK.
Viridian Solar has added to the information available on renewable energy technologies with the publication of its latest report on the performance of solar water heating in the UK.
A previous study by Viridian and the Building Research Establishment (BRE) looked at the performance of solar water heating systems on six real houses, and showed the variability due to the behaviour of the occupants. This second study aimed to measure of the average energy saving when solar water heating is applied across large numbers of dwellings.
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Solar energy collected over the year varies with season
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An experimental test rig was constructed, which simulated the hot water usage patterns of the average European household. Crucially, the study simulated the actions of a "disinterested" occupant, that took no steps to optimise the solar energy benefit, beyond using a timer-controller and thermostat for the hot water. This was felt to be more representative of mainstream use as solar heating progresses from being the province of only the most environmentally aware.
Viridian again worked with the BRE to design the experiment and select the metering equipment. The BRE inspected the test rig, downloaded the data regularly and produced an independent report at the end of the twelve month period.
Key findings from the study:
- Annual energy use avoided was 1,850kWh (gas).
- This corresponds to an average carbon dioxide saving of 360kg/year (natural gas) to 620kg/year (electric heating).
The work was supported by the Carbon Trust.
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