Heat is considered the world’s primary end use of global energy consumption. It’s estimated that the energy consumed for heat is almost the same as that consumed by transport and electricity combined. Most heat is consumed during industrial processes and in buildings to heat spaces and water.
Most consumers depend on fossil fuels that significantly contribute to carbon emissions and which also result in high heating bills. However, there’s a growing dependence on renewable energy sources for industrial and consumer use. The use of renewable heat is expected to grow as technological advancements make it easier to access in addition to the financial benefits enjoyed.
As advancements in renewable technology lead to increased use of electricity generated from natural sources like the sun and wind, there’s also a rise in the use of heat pumps for heat and light energy. Heat pumps are environmentally friendly since they have low carbon emissions.
The use of heat pumps is also cost-effective. Users enjoy drastic reductions in energy bills since heat pumps reduce the amount of electricity used for heating. For instance, with a heat pump hot water system, you incur minimal energy costs to heat your swimming pool or bathing water during summer or whenever the sun is out.
Solar-Powered Heat Pumps
Heat pumps depend on electricity to transfer heat from one place to another through a compressor attached to a circulating medium in liquid or gaseous form. For instance, during the cold season, heat pumps move heat that’s extracted from external sources into your home. The same happens during hot seasons when heat pumps transfer heat from your house to outside.
The latest developments in heat pump technology include those that work with renewable energy sources to generate and transfer heat. Modern heat pumps offer numerous advantages, including significant cost savings and multifunctional uses. For instance, by reversing the transmission cycle of a heat pump during summer, you can convert it to a cooling unit for your house or office.
Since solar energy can power up all the heat pumps in your home or business, let’s now take a quick look into solar-powered heat pumps.
Solar Heat Pumps
You can achieve all your heating or cooling needs with nil electricity bills by taking advantage of the latest developments in heat pump technology. When using a solar-enabled heat pump, you need to combine it with a solar system unit comprising the following products:
- Solar Panels
The sun is at the center of every solar panel. Solar panels convert sunlight into AC (alternating current) electricity ready to be used. With solar panels, it doesn’t matter whether the sun is brightly shining or hidden behind some heavy clouds; the sun’s rays permeate even thick clouds, activating photovoltaic cells on the solar panels.
There are three popular types of solar panels: polycrystalline, monocrystalline, and thin film. The most suitable solar panel is hinged on your unique needs, including your budget, roof space, desired level of energy efficiency, and the amount of sunlight available in your area.
The different solar panels have different appearances and perform differently. For instance, monocrystalline panels are aesthetically appealing and have the highest energy efficiency and power capacity, making them ideal for winter heating needs. However, they’re also more expensive.
Combining your solar panels and heat pump system allows you to meet your heating and hot water requirements at a reduced cost while caring for the environment.
- Solar Inverters
Although there are different types of inverters, they all play one role. They convert the power generated by solar panels from direct current (DC) into AC electricity that’s ready to be used. Therefore, an inverter is a necessity when switching to solar.
- Solar Battery Storage Systems
If you are away from home during the day, consider a solar battery storage system to store electrical energy for later use, such as heating your nighttime bathing water. You also need a solar battery if you’re home during the day and using electricity. Some modern batteries have built-in inverters and intelligent power control systems.
To encourage the switch to solar, the federal government still offers solar battery rebates in some areas, making them more affordable. Find out if yours is on the list.
Final Word
With these advancements in heat pump technology, you can be counted in the fight against global warming and climate change by switching to clean and renewable energy sources to heat or light up your home or business space. Beyond saving the world from the adverse effects of climate change, you’ll also save money to use for other domestic or business projects. And depending on where you live, you might be a candidate for financial incentives offered by your federal or state government for joining the solar revolution.
While considering the switch to solar, it would be advisable to seek the advice of solar experts for guidance on the type of solar product that will best meet your needs. In a market full of businesses selling solar products, working with a certified member of the Clean Energy Council guarantees that you’re in safe hands.
