So Many Options..

As explained in “What is Solar,” there are two types of solar energy collection: Active and Passive. Passive solar is usually just the solar collection or the design of the building. However, for active solar, there are many systems each that provide energy independence for almost any need.

 

 

The most common type of active solar is the PV or Photovoltaic system. To find out how PV systems work, please click here. The PV system comes in a variety of different uses. The PV systems can be mounted on various surfaces and appliances. The most common system is the roof-ground mount, where the solar panels are attached directly to the roof or a point on the ground. Another very common mounting option is mounting the panels or panel on a set of poles. There are other options for the PV systems as well, such as portable systems. Also, there are solar powered attic fans, individual lighting, solar shingles, and even solar powered water pumping.

 

Solar thermal, on the other hand, is not as common, but is still very efficient. Unlike PV systems, that change the sun's energy into electrical current, solar thermal systems use the heat from the sun to either heat water or pipes that water runs through. Solar thermal systems are usually roof-mounted systems. However, there is a network of pipes and pumps that circulate the heated water to whatever application you need the water for. This could be used for preheating the water in your water heater to save money or even to heat the water in a pool. There are various types of systems for solar thermal systems depending on the climate. For colder climates, antifreeze, which is usually a glycol solution, is added to the system. Also, There are special drain back systems for colder climate. Therefore, there would be no pipes freezing and potentially breaking.

Every year, there are new systems coming out, and advances are in progress everyday. In a few years, these systems will be even more efficient and available to all walks of life.