Solar photovoltaic and solar thermal: the differences

There are 2 types of solar energy. The solar heat produces heat: it is used for heating or hot water. The solar photovoltaic product for its electricity.

Photovoltaic solar energy

The PV generates electricity through solar radiation sensors, the heliostats, installed on the roof or in the garden.
The sun is not always available, photovoltaic panels should be connected to the mains.According to the sunshine, the house is powered by solar or by the network. Excess solar PV can be sold to the grid.

Photovoltaic solar energy is:

- Ecological: photovoltaic module operation has no impact on the environment, is fully recyclable and produced in 4 to 10 years the energy needed to manufacture;
- Economic: the modules have a lifespan of thirty years, thanks to financial support, your investment will pay for itself in 7-11 years.

Solar Thermal

Solar thermal is another type of renewable energy solar solar energy is captured by the rigid glass boxes, in which black metal plates and tubes heat up a liquid coolant. They are usually installed on the roof, where they can serve as cover.

Solar thermal energy is used:

- To produce hot water;
- Heating the house.

The solar water heater
The solar water heater, also called solar tank or CESI (individual solar water heaters) is the main use of solar energy for the home. It uses solar panels and a storage tank of water heated by the sun.

- Simple installation, even in an existing building;
- Covers between 50 and 80% of your hot water needs;
- Tax credits and financial aid;
- Installation pays for itself in 10 years.

Solar Heating
Solar heating will cover between 30 and 60% of your heating needs. There are 3 systems:

- The direct solar floor: the most used, which allows a floor heating with a heating pad;
- The combined system is used to preheat water in your central heating;
- The combined system storage tank: used both for heating and for sanitary (water heated by the sun builds up in a storage tank).