What is Solar Thermal?
A system that uses sunlight to heat water directly, as opposed to generating electricity.
Quick Answer
Solar thermal was popular in the UK before solar PV became affordable. While solar PV has overtaken solar thermal in popularity, thermal systems remain a good choice for homes with high hot water demand. Many UK homes installed solar thermal panels under earlier government incentive schemes.
Fact-checked by John Rooney, Solar Energy Editor. Editorial policy
Solar Thermal Explained
Solar thermal systems use collectors (usually mounted on a roof) to absorb heat from sunlight and transfer it to a hot water cylinder. There are two main types: flat plate collectors and evacuated tube collectors. Unlike solar PV, which generates electricity, solar thermal produces hot water directly — typically providing 50–70% of a household's hot water needs annually. Solar thermal systems are simpler and cheaper than PV but less versatile.
How Does Solar Thermal Work in the UK?
Solar thermal was popular in the UK before solar PV became affordable. While solar PV has overtaken solar thermal in popularity, thermal systems remain a good choice for homes with high hot water demand. Many UK homes installed solar thermal panels under earlier government incentive schemes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is solar thermal or solar PV better for the UK?
Solar PV is generally more versatile and cost-effective for most UK homes. However, solar thermal can be better for households with very high hot water demand and limited roof space.
Related Guides
John Rooney is the founder of Solar Info and has been covering the UK solar energy market since 2023. He fact-checks all content against official MCS and Ofgem data and maintains relationships with MCS-certified installers across the UK.