There are two categories of collector; Photovoltaic (P.V.) and Solar thermal.
Photovoltaic cells include wafer thin layers of semi-conductors that change the solar radiation into electrical energy for anything from calculators to satellites.
In contrast solar thermal collectors trap the solar radiation between an absorber and a layer of glass.
The special glass prevents most of the radiation escaping and a micro green-house effect is created within the collector.
Solar absorber
The radiation is concentrated into the coated copper absorber resulting in temperatures above 100ºC, far in excess of the surrounding air temperature.
By passing a solar fluid through the hot absorber this free heat energy is soaked up and can be stored ready for use in a solar storage cylinder.
Buderus Solar
Prolonged periods of exposure to direct sunlight or continual high temperatures are not a pre-requisite for installing solar;
Buderus has developed highly sensitive collector technology that absorbs indirect solar radiation emitted in conditions of diffused sunlight and even cloudy conditions.
Solar irradiation Although the summer months generally provide the highest levels of direct radiation, levels of indirect radiation in the UK, as shown in this map, mean that Buderus solar technology is just as efficient here as it would be in other parts of Europe.
For more information from the Solar Trade Association please see the link at the right of the page.
