Thermodynamic Solar Panels in Ireland - the Ultimate Guide

Joe Brennan
Jun 15, 2023

Thermodynamic solar panels may be your solution to harness the sun's power effectively and efficiently. This comprehensive guide will help you understand everything you need to know about these cutting-edge panels.

Thermodynamic solar panels are a revolutionary technology that combines the principles of heat pumps and solar thermal panels. They absorb heat from the atmosphere to warm up a fluid, which then circulates through a system to produce hot water.

Thermodynamic solar panels are an excellent option in Ireland, where the weather is not always sunny. They can work efficiently even on cloudy or rainy days, making them a reliable and efficient renewable energy source.

Benefits of Using Thermodynamic Solar Panels in Ireland

Energy Efficiency

Thermodynamic solar panels are highly efficient. They can absorb heat even at low temperatures, ensuring a consistent hot water supply throughout the year.

Cost Savings

Though the initial investment can be significant, thermodynamic solar panels can drastically reduce electricity bills, paying for themselves over time.

Environmental Benefits

Using a renewable energy source reduces your carbon footprint and contributes to a greener and more sustainable environment.

Low Maintenance

Once installed, thermodynamic solar panels require minimal maintenance. This saves you time and the costs associated with regular upkeep.

How Thermodynamic Solar Panels Work?

Thermodynamic solar panels use a refrigerant fluid that circulates through the panels. The liquid absorbs heat from its surroundings and becomes a warm gas. It then passes through a compressor, raising its temperature further.

Installing Thermodynamic Solar Panels

Site Assessment

Before installing thermodynamic solar panels, it's essential to assess your property to ensure it's suitable. This involves checking the available space, orientation, and potential shading issues.

Professional Installation

Once your site has been assessed, a professional team from Going Solar will handle the installation. Our experts have extensive experience installing thermodynamic solar panels in various properties across Ireland.

Comparison with Traditional Solar Panels

Understanding the difference between traditional and thermodynamic solar panels is crucial when choosing solar panels. Here, we compare the two based on various parameters.

Working Principle

Traditional Solar Panels

They convert sunlight directly into electricity using photovoltaic cells.

Thermodynamic Solar Panels

They absorb heat from the atmosphere to heat a fluid that produces hot water.

Efficiency in Various Weather Conditions

Traditional Solar Panels

Their efficiency is highly dependent on sunlight. They could be more efficient on cloudy or rainy days.

Thermodynamic Solar Panels

They can work efficiently even in overcast conditions, absorbing heat rather than sunlight.

Energy Output

Traditional Solar Panels

They produce electricity, which can be used for various purposes.

Thermodynamic Solar Panels

They primarily produce hot water and are not meant to generate electricity.

Installation and Maintenance

Traditional Solar Panels 

They may require more extensive installation processes, including inverters and batteries. Maintenance includes cleaning the panels and checking the electrical components.

Thermodynamic Solar Panels

They are generally easier to install and require less maintenance than traditional solar panels.

Cost

Traditional Solar Panels 

These can be costlier initially but save more in the long run if electricity costs are high.

Thermodynamic Solar Panels 

They are usually less expensive than traditional solar panels, but savings are primarily in hot water heating.

Incentives and Financial Assistance in Ireland

For those in Ireland looking to install thermodynamic solar panels, several incentives and financial assistance programmes can help reduce the initial costs and make the investment more affordable.

SEAI Grants

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grants for installing solar panels. These grants can cover a significant portion of the installation costs. Ensuring the solar panel system you are installing is eligible for the grant is essential.

Better Energy Homes Scheme

Under this scheme, homeowners in Ireland can avail of financial support for implementing energy-efficient home improvements, including installing solar panels.

Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA)

For businesses installing thermodynamic solar panels, the ACA is a tax incentive that allows them to write off 100% of the purchase value of qualifying energy-efficient equipment against their profit in the year of purchase.

Micro-generation Support Scheme

Though primarily for traditional solar panels that produce electricity, it’s worth keeping an eye on this as it encourages homeowners to generate their own renewable energy and possibly sell the excess back to the grid.

Community Energy Grants

Community groups in Ireland can also avail themselves of grants for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, including installing thermodynamic solar panels.

Going Solar's Services in Thermodynamic Solar Panels

Going Solar, a leading solar panel installation company in Ireland, specialises in offering top-notch services in thermodynamic solar panels. Our services encompass various aspects of thermodynamic solar panel systems, ensuring our customers receive comprehensive support at every step.

Consultation and Site Assessment

Our experts conduct an initial consultation to understand your requirements. A thorough site assessment follows, where our team evaluates the suitability of your property for thermodynamic solar panel installation.

Customised Solutions

Understanding that each customer’s needs are unique, Going Solar designs customised thermodynamic solar panel systems. Our systems are tailored to maximise efficiency and cost savings for your location and usage patterns.

Professional Installation

Our team of certified professionals ensures the installation process is seamless and of the highest standard. Our experts have extensive experience and use the latest tools and techniques to ensure a safe and effective installation.

Maintenance and Support

Going Solar offers maintenance services and support to ensure your thermodynamic solar panels operate at peak efficiency. Our maintenance plans are designed to keep your system running smoothly with minimal downtime.

Assistance with Incentives

Going Solar’s experts also assist you in availing of the various incentives and financial assistance programmes available in Ireland for installing thermodynamic solar panels. We guide you through the application process to ensure you can benefit from the grants and incentives.

Savings with Thermodynamic Panels Compared with Other Heating Systems

One of the most appealing aspects of investing in thermodynamic panels is the significant savings compared to traditional heating systems. This section will analyse how thermodynamic panels stack up against other standard heating systems regarding costs and savings.

Thermodynamic Panels vs Gas Boilers

Gas Boilers 

These traditional systems use natural gas to heat water. They are known for their efficiency but rely on fossil fuels, which are subject to price fluctuations and have a carbon footprint.

Thermodynamic Panels

While the upfront cost may be higher compared to gas boilers, thermodynamic panels can achieve lower running costs because they use ambient heat, which is free and renewable.

Savings

Over time, the reduced operating costs of thermodynamic panels can result in significant savings, particularly if natural gas prices rise.

Thermodynamic Panels vs Electric Heaters

Electric Heaters 

Often used as a quick solution, electric heaters are known for their high operating costs. They convert electricity directly to heat, and during peak times, this can be particularly expensive.

Thermodynamic Panels

These systems are more energy-efficient than electric heaters, as they use electricity only to operate a compressor, a small part of the overall energy used in heating water.

Savings 

The reduced electricity consumption of thermodynamic panels translates to much lower operating costs than electric heaters.

Thermodynamic Panels vs Oil Heating Systems

Oil Heating Systems 

These systems use oil to produce heat. Oil prices can be volatile, like gas, and these systems also have a carbon footprint.

Thermodynamic Panels 

Utilising ambient heat, thermodynamic panels do not rely on oil and are not subject to the same price fluctuations. They also have a lower carbon footprint.

Savings

Thermodynamic panels can offer savings in terms of reduced operating costs and avoid exposure to oil price volatility.

Thermodynamic Panels vs Heat Pumps

Heat Pumps

These systems extract heat from the ground or air to heat water. They are energy-efficient but may require more energy in colder conditions.

Thermodynamic Panels

Similar in principle, but thermodynamic panels are generally more efficient in varying weather conditions, especially in places with colder climates like Ireland.

Savings

Although both systems are energy-efficient, thermodynamic panels usually have lower running costs due to better performance in colder conditions.

Future-Proofing and Long-term Savings

Besides the immediate savings in operating costs, investing in thermodynamic panels is also a way of future-proofing against rising energy prices and potential carbon taxes. As governments worldwide move towards more sustainable energy solutions, renewable energy systems like thermodynamic panels will likely receive further incentives and support, enhancing long-term savings.

Conclusion

Thermodynamic solar panels are an efficient way to produce hot water in Ireland. They are ideal for the Irish climate because they can function even in overcast conditions. Going Solar is committed to helping you make the transition to renewable energy. Contact Going Solar today to discover how to make Ireland's most seamless solar panels.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are thermodynamic panels any good?

Yes, thermodynamic panels are highly efficient and effective, especially in climates like Ireland, where sunlight can be inconsistent. They can provide hot water throughout the year, significantly reducing electricity bills.

How do thermodynamic solar panels work?

Thermodynamic solar panels absorb heat from the environment, regardless of sunlight. A fluid that circulates through the system absorbs the heat, which is then compressed to raise its temperature and transferred to a water tank.

Do solar panels use thermodynamics?

Traditional solar panels don’t use thermodynamics in the same way that thermodynamic solar panels do. Thermodynamic solar panels use the principles of thermodynamics to heat water, whereas traditional solar panels convert sunlight into electricity.

Do thermodynamic panels work at night?

Yes, thermodynamic panels can work at night. They don’t rely on sunlight but rather absorb heat from the atmosphere to operate even in the dark.

How much electricity does a thermodynamic panel use?

Thermodynamic panels do require some electricity to operate the compressor within the system. However, this is minimal compared to the energy they produce, making them a highly efficient renewable energy source.

How much does it cost to install thermodynamic solar panels in Ireland?

The cost of installing thermodynamic solar panels can vary based on the size of the system, your specific energy needs, and the installation company. You can expect to pay anywhere from €4,000 to €7,000 on average. This includes the cost of the panels, a hot water cylinder if required, and installation.

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*FYI, parts of this blog post were drafted by artificial technlogy. But rest assured, it's been thoroughly researched, edited, reviewed and me & my team.
Author Fahad Zahid
Founder @ Going Solar

Joe Brennan, the founder of Going Solar, is dedicated to making solar power mainstream in Ireland and meet SEAI objectives. With a focus on affordability and sustainability, he is bringing renewable energy solutions to homes, reducing costs & environmental impact.