Solar energy can be used in a number of ways to provide us with heating and energy for our homes and workplaces, and passive solar heating exists in most buildings as a matter of course. About 14% of space heating in British homes comes from passive solar heating and this natural energy source can be taken advantage of further.
Whilst passive solar heating is certainly not a new concept, it is something which is being used more in modern buildings to reduce the amount of heating required from other sources and thus reducing carbon emissions. Buildings can be designed to utilise the sun’s energy as efficiently as possible. Whilst this can include solar thermal heating panels and/or solar photovoltaic panels for electricity, passive solar heating is integral to the building’s design and needn’t add to the construction costs.
One of the main factors in utilising passive solar heating is the location and orientation of the building. As you would expect, having the main living or working areas of the building facing in a southerly direction is key, as is optimising the use of glass. This not only allows the natural warmth of the sun into the building but also natural light, reducing the need to use electric lights. There are other factors which are also taken into consideration such as ensuring adequate draught proofing and insulation measures to reduce heat loss.
There are a number of books available on passive solar heating as well as information on the web, so for more information ‘google it’ or try your local or online bookstore.
