Solar or wind

When it comes to deciding on the type of alternative energy to use, many people are not sure if they should opt for wind power or solar power systems.

The short answer is that solar power systems are more efficient and convenient in residential locations and commercial enterprises. The prices of both systems have come down dramatically, and the payback periods of both have decreased. But most houses don’t have the room for a wind turbine, whereas solar panels and geysers just sit on top of the roof.

Solar power systems also have less restrictive operating conditions – even weak sunlight will do – and tend to deliver better value in terms of energy generated.

Once you’ve made the decision to make the sun work for you, there are other factors to consider.

Flat plate vs. evacuated tube solar hot water collectors

Flat plate and evacuated tubes refer to the two basic collector types used to absorb heat from the sun and transfer it to the water.

Flat plate collectors, such as the ones Kayema uses, consist of a dark flat-plate absorber of solar energy, a transparent cover that allows solar energy to pass through but reduces heat losses, and heat-transport fluid (anti-freeze or water) flowing through the tubes. Fluid is circulated through the tubing to transfer heat from the absorber to an insulated geyser. This may be achieved directly or through a heat exchanger.

Evacuated tube collectors are composed of multiple evacuated glass tubes each containing an absorber plate fused to a heat pipe. The heat from the hot end of the heat pipes is transferred to the transfer fluid, (water or anti-freeze). The vacuum that surrounds the outside of the tube reduces heat loss to the outside.