SOLAR

HEATING

 

Solar heating, “passive solar energy” was already used under the Roman empire. or It has been part of our architecture until the 20th century and the advent of cheap energy and related technologies. This has led to huge wastes of fossil ressources which are no longer permissible.

Passive solar energy is used to heat up water, houses and buildings. Simple systems with long life are in use very successfully worldwide.

For new buildings, the best option is to work with an architect or general contractor with experience in passive solar buildings. They will be able to manage the project successfully and save the owner a great amount of time.

 

SOLAR WATER HEATERS

These are expected to see a fast development in the EU, as a complementary system to fossil fuel powered water heaters.

The Southern EU, including Portugal, Spain, France, Italy and Greece, is expected to promote the development of these devices before 2010. Northern Europe is currently ahead with better government incentives to fit such systems.

 
The 2002 Solar Decathlon, USA. University teams design, build and operate solar powered efficient homes. All houses are self sufficient. From left to right, houses from the Universities of Colorado, Virginia, Auburn and Crowder.

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