- How much does a solar thermal system cost?
- How much will the energy saved be worth?
- How much space is required for a solar thermal system?
- Does the solar thermal system need to be mounted on my roof?
- Does the solar thermal system need to face south?
- Do I need to install a new roof before the solar thermal system is installed?
- What happens if the thermal system is shaded?
- What are some of the choices I have to make?
How much does a solar thermal system cost?
The size and type of system you choose will play a big roll in how much the system will cost. The average solar thermal system in San Antonio costs around $7,500 before rebates and incentives. CPS Energy currently offers a rebate to install a solar thermal system.
The CPS Energy Solar Water Heater rebate can only be used if the solar heater is replacing an electric water heater.The estimated number of kWh saved annually will be multiplied by a rate of $0.60. Rebates for solar water heating systems will have a maximum allowable rebate amount of $2,000.
The Federal Solar Tax Credit offers 30% tax credit for the cost of your system, with no upper limit.You simply reduce the federal taxes you owe by 30% of the cost of your system after any rebates are received. Any unused tax credit can be carried over to the following year. Further information can be found at: www.dsireusa.org or from your tax professional.
How much will the energy saved be worth?
The average solar thermal system in San Antonio will save approximately 2,450 kWh of electricity per year. At the current energy rates, the energy saved will equal to about $220 per year.
How much space does the system need?
The space required for a solar thermal system will vary depending on your water usage and needs. The installer will be able to customize a plan that is suitable for the space available.
Does the solar thermal system need to be mounted on my roof?
Panels are often mounted on the roof, but can also be mounted on the ground if the space is available. Keep in mind, wherever the panels are located needs to be free of shade. Roof mount systems are most common in residential installations.
Do the panels need to face south?
Unlike photovoltaic panels, solar hot water panels do not have to face directly due south. Panels can be mounted up to 30 degrees off due south
Do I need to install a new roof before the solar panels are installed?
If your roof is older and needs to be replaced in the near future, you will want to replace it at the time that the solar thermal system is installed to avoid the cost of removing and reinstalling your solar thermal system.
What happens if the panels are shaded?
It is very important that your system is properly mounted to maximize output. A shade free system will be the most efficient.
What are some of the choices I have to make?
Flat-plate collector
Glazed flat-plate collectors are insulated, weatherproofed boxes that contain a dark absorber plate under one or more glass or plastic (polymer) covers. Unglazed flat-plate collectors—typically used for solar pool heating—have a dark absorber plate, made of metal or polymer, without a cover or enclosure.
Integral collector-storage systems
Also known as ICS or batch systems, they feature one or more black tanks or tubes in an insulated, glazed box. Cold water first passes through the solar collector, which preheats the water. The water then continues on to the conventional backup water heater, providing a reliable source of hot water. They should be installed only in mild-freeze climates because the outdoor pipes could freeze in severe, cold weather.
Evacuated-tube solar collectors
They feature parallel rows of transparent glass tubes. Each tube contains a glass outer tube and metal absorber tube attached to a fin. The fin’s coating absorbs solar energy but inhibits radiative heat loss. These collectors are used more frequently for U.S. commercial applications.
For more information please visit the Department of Energy