Does electric heating work with solar panels?

For those fortunate enough to have photovoltaics (solar PV), their household may generate enough power for their heating needs for most of the year, essentially providing them with free warmth that’s completely eco-friendly.

This means that the solar energy that they create can be used for any electrical appliance or heating solution in their house. A 5kW array of solar panels (14 panels) can generate up to 20kWh on a good day. In this scenario, it’s summertime and we’re getting plenty of that solar energy. Our fictional semi-detached doesn’t need much heating at this time of year but let’s say we’re planning to run our electric radiators for around 5 hours a day just to take the chill off during the mornings and evenings. Or you can store it in multiple battery storage and save this for the winter.

Does this mean I have to pay for my heating?

Yes, you will, because renewable systems won’t be working in optimal conditions (especially in some parts of winter). However, it does mean you won’t have to pay for your heating for a large chunk of the year.

Some key things to acknowledge:

• Solar panels can power electric radiators, along with any other electrical appliance, providing your home with self-sustaining Carbon neutral energy.
• Solar panels will reduce your heating bills in the winter months
• Depending on how much sun your property gets, you will get free heating for a large chunk of the year.

Tags: Understanding Heating.