Generating solar power has significantly advanced over the last few years, with the traditional bulky solar panel no longer the status quo. In fact, the technology has developed so quickly, solar power can be efficiently generated using laminates - rather than traditional glass photovoltaic panels - that adhere to roofing systems, allowing for a seamless appearance and no obvious protrusion from the roof itself. In most cases, these systems can be installed at the time the roofing is installed, or easily retrofitted at a later date.

Solar power is one of the fastest growing areas of electricity production around the world, with scalable solutions now available for a myriad of functions - covering everything from hospitals to commercial spaces and everything in between - apartments, residential dwellings, hotels and multi-unit residential settings.

Solar power, solar panels and smarter energy

Evacuated solar tubes are another contemporary option, with these units sitting atop the roof, and suitable for most residential settings including detached dwellings, apartments, townhouses and units. Solar tubes offer a slimline, modern aesthetic in small dimensions while offering a high output for the roof area required to house the unit.

Horizontal solar panels are another option, one particularly sought after for larger commercial buildings where facade applications can be incorporated into the design and offer higher output than roof-only applications. In many cases, horizontal solar panels are versatile in terms of application, with the ability to mount to a curved or bespoke facade. Horizontal panels can be used in conjunction with roofing panels to generate the maximum amount of power and significantly reduce reliance on other energy sources.

Solar hot water heating

Solar hot water heating is a sought after method of producing hot water, especially for large-scale projects with high water use such as hospitals, residential facilities, industrial buildings and hotels. Solar panels for these types of systems can be installed on almost all roof types and are suitable for most climatic conditions, including high wind, seismic and snow zones. However, to be effective solar panels must be installed in the correct orientation, ensuring they receive significant amounts of sun during the day. An indoor solar heater can provide hot water for a building, with panel orientation affecting how much sunlight the system receives.

Many systems offer a guaranteed complete hot water heating solution, with back-up energy sources often utilised such as electricity or gas. A solar pool warmer uses solar collectors to heat pool water, serving a different water-heating load.