Solar Thermal
Community Environmental Center is a leader in the movement to install solar thermal systems in the New York Metropolitan Area. State and Local Energy Report named CEC the 2010 Multifamily Award Winner for CEC’s solar thermal installations at two residential buildings in Brooklyn, New York, in 2009.
Solar Thermal in the U.S.
Today in the United States, solar thermal systems are largely used for heating the water with which we take showers and run appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines; the majority of solar thermal systems in the United States are installed in single-family homes.
The Demand for Solar Thermal
But the demand for solar water heating in multifamily residences, schools and universities, public and senior housing, and private commercial buildings, is growing.
This is a demand being driven by one all-important factor: the need for the United States to find alternative sources of energy.
The sun’s energy is renewable. And it’s free.
CEC uses only solar materials approved by the Solar Rating & Certification Corporation.
To talk with CEC about implementing a solar thermal system, please contact:
Sal Iacono or call him: 718-784-1444, ext. 157
How does a solar thermal system work?
Solar collectors—typically large, flat panels on a roof—use sunlight to heat fluid that travels through pipes from the collectors and ultimately heats water in hot-water storage tanks.
What is the difference between a solar thermal system and a solar photovoltaic (PV) system?
Solar thermal systems use sunlight to generate heat. Solar PV systems generate electricity.
How can a solar thermal system work in the Northeast’s temperate climate?
In the Northeast, solar panels are usually installed at a 40-degree angle on a roof, for optimal absorption of sunlight year-round. There are days, however, when enough sunlight may not be available to heat the fluid in the collectors. For that reason, solar thermal systems “preheat” water in storage tanks, and a building’s conventional method of heating water can also be used to provide a back-up system.
Is it possible to receive incentives to allay the cost of installing a solar thermal system?
Yes. Call us to find out more. You will also find information at www.dsireusa.org.
And if you want to learn more about CEC’s work with solar thermal hot water systems:
http://www.cecenter.org/2010/07/community-envi…tizens-council/
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