Solar Thermal

What is Solar Thermal?

Solar thermal is the specialist term for heat produced using solar energy. Thermal collectors convert sunlight into heat which is used for hot water and to supplement conventional heating systems or to heat swimming pools. It may also be used to heat air directly using air collectors.

EH Smith and Schüco

After a lot of research, EH Smith have partnered with one of the world's leading manufacturers of Solar Thermal systems, German based Schüco International KG. Schüco have more than 10 years experience in the Solar Energy market, and as Germany is the most advanced user of Solar Technology, they are at the forefront of research and development in this sector. Schüco are already well known in glazing and curtain walling systems and their brand is synonymous with innovation, quality, reliability and durability.

Is the United Kingdom sufficiently sunny?

Yes. Solar Thermal and Solar PV systems work due to solar radiation and although solar radiation is stronger in direct sunlight it is still possible to generate enough energy on a cloudy day to heat your water for the day. Every year the Earth receives 10,000 times as much solar energy as the human race currently needs. In Germany alone, which has a similar climate and latitude to the UK, an annual total of 300 billion kilowatt hours of solar energy is available. There is an average of 1,000 W of direct and indirect solar radiation per square metre.

How much energy can I really save?

A solar thermal system will generally allow you to save over 60% of the energy required to generate hot water. If used to supplement a conventional heating system, roughly the same percentage saving can be made in addition.

Do you need planning permission to install a system?

No planning permission is required to install a solar energy system. However, if a building is listed then the relevant authority will have to decide.

Commercial Applications

Commercial One of the benefits of the Schüco system is that it can integrate both Solar Thermal and Solar PV into one system.

There are the following installation types:

On-roof installation
Flat-roof installation
Integrated/complete roof installation system
Canopy installation
Façade installation

Please click on the image on the left to see more of the commercial applications for Solar Thermal.

Residential Applications

Many householders are looking at ways to cut their energy bills. Solar Thermal offers an affordable alternative for heating hot water. The most common types of application for residential developments are:

On-roof installation, for retro-fit
Integrated Installation, for new-build
Flat roof installation

Please click on the image to the left for more information on residential Solar Thermal systems.

If you have any queries regarding Solar Thermal systems, please contact us