Case Study: Solar Thermal
Newman School needed to replace its outdated thermal solar system due to inefficiency and end-of-product life. We conducted a comprehensive assessment and proposed an upgraded system tailored to the school’s needs. The new installation included high-efficiency solar collectors (panels), thermal storage tanks, and a modern control system, ensuring minimal disruption.
Project
Delivery
We decommissioned and removed the existing 6000l buffer vessel and heat dump system before installing 20 new solar collectors, commonly referred to as solar panels. These panels were strategically placed to capture maximum sunlight, optimising energy efficiency.
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The installation process included flushing the piping system linked to the solar collectors and adding new solar fluid before reconnecting to the panels.
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These panels not only enhances the energy efficiency of the property but also contribute to lower utility bills as the system preheats cold water before it flows into the property's hot water system.
Benefits
By utilising solar energy to preheat water, the overall demand on traditional hot water systems is substantially reduced. This allows the hot water to reach the necessary temperature of 65 degrees with less energy consumption, leading to decreased operational strain on boilers.
As a result, the reliance on gas is minimised, contributing to both cost savings and a reduction in carbon emissions. The integration of solar heating systems exemplifies how modern mechanical engineering can harness renewable energy sources to improve efficiency and promote a greener future.
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Solar PV Vs Solar Thermal Panels
A well-implemented solar thermal system can typically achieve around 15-25% of the business's (Domestic Hot Water) DHW requirements in the summer and potentially offset up to 30% of annual energy demands for DHW in commercial settings.
Transitioning from gas to electric heating systems can dramatically increase yearly running costs; however, integrating solar thermal technology can mitigate these costs while reducing carbon emissions by 42%.
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*Actual figures will depend on the system and the number of collectors*​
Compared to solar photovoltaic systems, solar thermal is significantly more effective for water heating, presenting a compelling option for cost-sensitive applications. With a ROI of around five years per collector, solar thermal installations not only contribute to sustainability goals but also offer a cost-effective solution for energy efficiency.
Gas heating (90%)
Part L 2021
g CO2/kWh
233
Carbon factor compared to gas
1
Cost per kWh (Medium non domestic,
Q3 2021)
3.38 p
Direct electric heating
136
0.58
13.04 p
​​Cost factor compared to gas​
1
3.86