One issue that didn't quite make it onto the bandwagon of last spring's slew of legislation was Solar Thermal, specifically solar hot water heaters. Solar hot water systems are a technology that offer an excellent opportunity to reduce our use of conventional fuels such as propane and natural gas, save consumers money, and protect our environment. These systems use the free energy of the sun to heat water in collectors on the roof and then transfer this heat to a storage tank in the house. Usually an auxiliary tank is still needed as back-up, but when this auxiliary tank is actually a tankless, on-demand heater the system is even more efficient. By using a solar hot water heating system a household can offset an average of 76% of conventional fuel use, reducing their energy bill and the amount of CO2 released. Because of their durability these systems last for a few decades during which the owners can very easily re-coup any up-front costs.

Critics say that solar thermal is a waste because they claim that it is not cost effective. The reality is that new technology, especially when it comes to reducing natural gas use, is usually cost ineffective until it is allowed to go through a large market. A strong market in solar thermal would streamline installation processes, allow for mass production, and allow for economies of scale within the market. This is currently occurring with solar PV, and solar PV is much more expensive than solar thermal technology.

The market is ready to expand; it just needs a little boost. There are strong certification in place for systems and installers, and more and more solar thermal businesses are popping-up all over the place. Considering the rising energy prices and threats of global warming we need to match the federal solar credit and create state incentives and rebates. At the very least all new houses should have solar thermal built right into them.

Written by Francesca Desmarais, Go Solar Organizer