Choosing your technology
Choose a solar photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WIND) or solar thermal (ST) system with help from TLCP and financial assistance from Low Carbon Buildings: Phase 2.
A single system can incorporate up to three renewable energy technologies.
| PV | WIND | ST | ||
| generates electricity using solar energy |  |
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powers lights, computers, appliances, etc. |
| generates electricity using the wind energy |  |
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powers lights, computers, appliances, etc. |
| creates heat using solar energy | |
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‘collectors’ harness heat energy for hot water |
| works in direct and diffuse sunlight | |
n/a | |
is a viable technology for the UK |
| works best in consistent wind supply | n/a | |
n/a | average wind resource of 6m/s or more is required |
| can be affected by shade or obstructions | |
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PV / ST suffers reduced energy gain in shade for best results with WIND avoid tall trees, buildings, etc. |
| can be roof mounted | |
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PV / ST is commonly roof mounted wind turbines can be mounted on buildings in some circumstances |
| can be building integrated | |
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many BIPV products are available eg PV glazing, PV tiles, PV cladding |
| can be free standing | |
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a variety of mounting and pitches are possible for PV / WIND / ST |
| works well at south facing sites | |
n/a | |
maximises energy gain from the sun at southerly orientation |
| reduces fuel bills | |
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PV / WIND reduces electricity purchased from energy provider ST reduces quantity of gas or electricity purchased from energy provider |
| connects to grid for consistent supply and electricity export | |
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excess energy generated can export to grid at agreed tariff |
| connects to existing and new hot water systems |
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simple plumbing principles apply for ST |
| is completely carbon-free | |
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no fossil fuels required to run |
| does not require a lot of maintenance | |
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PV / ST is very low-maintenance regular maintenance is required for windturbines |
| are safe even in high winds | |
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safety mechanisms are incorporated in WIND turbines PV / ST include quality mounting systems |