Solar cells can be used to convert light energy into electrical energy, but they are expensive. Solar panels are a much cheaper way of using energy from the Sun. Solar panels will absorb heat energy from the Sun to heat water.
Some houses have solar panels, which help to heat water that is used for washing and for heating. Even on cloudy day, the water in the panels will absorb some heat. The water may not quite get hot enough to heat the house, but less fuel will be needed to bring it up to the right temperature.
| 1. Loft insulation 2. Super efficient LED lights 3. Micro CHP system 4. Household waste collected to feed CHP system |
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5. Ground source heat pump 6. Cut bills by about £425 a year 7. Double glazing and shutters 8. Solar thermal panels to provide hot water |
reference: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/7113165.stm