Sector / PV & Heat
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Photovoltaics and heat are closely linked aspects when it comes to using solar power for heating purposes. There are two common ways in which photovoltaic systems can be used to provide heat: by using cartridge heaters or by operating a heat pump.
1. Cartridge Heaters:
Cartridge heaters are electrical heating elements that are built directly into a home’s thermal storage or hot water tank. If a photovoltaic system produces electricity that is not immediately consumed in the household, this excess electricity can be used to operate the cartridge heaters.The heating cartridges generate heat and thus heat the water in the storage tank or the heating system directly.
Advantages of cartridge heaters:
• Easy integration: Cartridge heaters can be integrated into existing heating systems relatively easily, as they do not require complex installation.
• Flexibility: The solar power generated can be used directly for heating when it is available, increasing self-consumption of solar power. Disadvantages of cartridge heaters:
• Low efficiency: Cartridge heaters consume a relatively high amount of electricity, which can lead to higher operating costs.
• Dependence on the supply of solar power:
If the photovoltaic system does not produce enough electricity, other heating sources must be used.
2. Heat pump:
A heat pump uses electrical energy to extract environmental heat from the air, the ground or groundwater and bring it to a higher temperature level in order to heat buildings. If a photovoltaic system produces solar power, this can be fed directly into the operation of the heat pump.
Advantages of a heat pump:
• High efficiency: Heat pumps can produce many times the heat output compared to the electricity required to run them, resulting in high efficiency and lower running costs.
• Independence from the supply of solar power: Since heat pumps use ambient heat, they are less dependent on the amount of solar power produced and can also work efficiently when there is less solar radiation.
Disadvantages of a heat pump:
• Acquisition costs : Heat pumps often have higher acquisition costs compared to conventional heating systems.
• Installation effort: The installation of a heat pump often requires professional installation and, if necessary, the adaptation of the heating system. The choice between cartridge heaters and heat pumps depends on a number of factors, including individual needs, the building's energy needs and financial capabilities.
photovoltaic system,heat pump and battery storage. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFDKaY73hIg
