apple solar thermal brochure

S O L A R E N E R G Y

Home grown energySOLAR THERMAL

Organic Electricity

APP L E POWER

Contents Our aim is to help you understand solar energy..........................2

For us, the sun as a source of energy simply shines ....................5

Renewable energy? Things are looking up..................................6

Could solar energy save and make you money? .........................8

Apple is where homeowners always come first.........................10

When it comes to solar energy, things are warming up ............13

It's less about feeling the heat, more about seeing the light .....14

Photovoltaic solar electricity systems give you more choice .......16

The technology behind solar electricity .....................................18

How the sun can get you into hot water ..................................21

The benefits of a solar thermal system......................................22

Frequently asked questions .......................................................26

Your successful solar energy installation in 10 easy steps ..........28

What our customers say ...........................................................30

Apple Solar Energy 1


Renewables, carbon emissions,global warming, carbon footprints,wind power... the news headlineshave been full of this kind ofjargon and technical-speak forquite a while now. But what doesit all mean to you?

This brochure has been designed to help you cut through all the confusion and helpyou to make an informed decision aboutwhether solar energy is the right choice for you, your home, your lifestyle and, of course, your pocket.

In the world of renewable energy there aretwo important factors 1. Scientists believe the world is warming upand that warming presents a real threat tothe planet and, therefore, our future. Ourcarbon emissions – especially from heatingand lighting our homes – play a big part in global warming and need to be reduced.Using more renewable energy generatedthrough sustainable means (such as solarenergy) could help us to do just that.

2. Plus, and you won't need reminding aboutthis, the cost of energy for heating andlighting our homes from fossil fuels justkeeps rising.

These two factors have motivatedhomeowners like you to look at alternativeenergy sources. However, the upfront costs ofinstalling an alternative energy source – suchas solar panels – has frankly made theirinstallation difficult to justify for many people.

Now, that's all changed! As you may know, the recent introduction of attractive Government backed tariffs (Feedin Tariff or F.I.T, as they are known) forrenewable energy generation have mademany homeowners right across the countrythink again.

And now renewable energy for the home –your home? – makes sense ecologically and,most importantly, economically.

Here at Apple, we've taken a long, hard lookat all the popular alternative and renewableenergy sources for the home, from wind towater power. We'd like to explain to you thepros and cons of each on the next page.

Our aim is to help youunderstand solar energyLower energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint and extraincome... what's not to love about solar energy?

There are a number of differentrenewable energy choicesavailable to you and we'veoutlined the advantages anddisadvantages of each below.

WindAdvantages: Wind is free, the energy from itcan be stored in batteries for times when theturbines are still. The UK has nearly half ofEurope's total wind energy.

Disadvantages: Wind turbines for yourhome can be a bit of an eyesore, tend to benoisy and vibrate. None of which endearsthem to your neighbours!

Air source heat pumps Advantages: Good for low grade heat andhot water generation and need virtually nomaintenance.

Disadvantages: Space is required around the units as they need room to receive a goodflow of air. Plus your home's insulation willprobably need to be upgraded and unless youhave underfloor heating – with which they are best suited to work – you may need tochange to it to get the full benefits.

Ground source pumpsAdvantages: As the ground 3 metres belowthe surface stays a constant temperature allyear round, you could rely on a steady supplyof energy for heating and hot water.

Disadvantages: Heat is generated at only afairly low temperature, which is why – like airsource systems – this option is better suitedfor use with underfloor heating. A trench orbore hole needs to be dug in your garden to lay the necessary pipework. This can beinconvenient if you have a small garden andnear impossible if you don't have one.

Hydro electricityAdvantages: A clean, cost effective energy source.

Disadvantages: Not many of us live near a legally accessible, fast and consistentlyflowing water course!

From our extensive research into renewableenergy sources we believe that solar power – using light from the sun – is the mostconvenient, simple and cost effective way forward.

For us, the sun as a source of energy simply shinesWhen it comes to alternative energy sources...you have lots of alternatives to consider.



We believe that solar energyrepresents your best chance of cost effectively and convenientlyreducing your energy bills andcarbon footprint. In addition, you will be able to generate an income from the energy the panels produce.

But it's not what's best for us that counts,it's what's best for youSo, as we said at the beginning of this brochure,our aim is to enable you to make the rightdecision about solar energy and whether it'sright for your home.

As part of that, we'll provide you with honest,objective and transparent advice.

Your home and situation is unique, so ourservice is tailored to your individual needsWhen considering solar energy for your home,there are a number of important factors to takeinto account. Here they are in outline:

*Is your home suitable?The orientation of your home or the presenceof nearby trees or tall buildings may adverselyimpact on a solar energy solution.

*Irradiation levelsIrradiation levels vary across the country. So we'll explain what they're like in your area,to give you an understanding of just how muchenergy can be generated from the sun whereyou live.

*The pitch and position of your roofThe angle of your roof and the way it faces arealso important considerations in the success ofa solar energy system. Don't worry though, wecan easily measure your roof and work out howmuch space, and in which position, you haveyour panels.

*Photovoltaic or Solar Thermal?Again, don't worry about the jargon. The first of these options, Photovoltaic (sometimesknown as PV or Solar Energy) generateselectricity for your home. The second option,Solar Thermal, simply heats your water. We'llhelp you decide which is best for your homeand your needs.

*Your lifestyleThe way you and your family live and useenergy is obviously important in your choice of a renewable solution.

Renewable energy? Things are looking upHelp power your home with the sun and Apple


*Your expectationsApple will give you a clear, realistic and practical idea of what solar energy can deliver to you, sothat the benefits you and your family actuallygain match your expectations.

*CostsWe will tell you, in an honest and straightforward way, what your installation willcost, how much money it could save you andhow much you make through incentives such as the Feed in Tariff.

Myth bustingThere's a lot of hype surrounding sustainableand renewable energy sources. So here are a few facts about solar energy:

• There are two types of solar energy system:Photovoltaic, which generates solar electricityand Solar Thermal, which heats water.

• In the UK, the sun radiates, on average, theequivalent energy output of about 1,000power stations.

• Though every location in the country couldbenefit from solar energy, the amount of irradiation which falls on different areas ofthe UK varies. This means that the powergenerated from solar energy varies too, depending on where you live.

• Solar energy systems work all year round, because they use light from the sun not heat, although they do produce more energyin the summer months.

• Solar panels work best on south facing roofs, but work in west or east facing locations as well.

• Planning permission is not usually required to install solar panels. You will require BuildingRegulations approval. Don't worry, our expertswill look after that aspect for you.

• The government's green energy initiativesmean that solar energy systems have nevermade as much economic sense as they do now.

We can't just 'give you a quote' and youcan quote us on that!When it comes to choosing the right solar energy solution for you, your home and yourpocket, there are simply too many variables andissues to be carefully considered before we cangive you an accurate estimate of the costs andbenefits involved. So please don't ask for a 'ballpark figure' over the phone!

Channel Islands


If you install a renewable energysolution – such as solar – thereare government schemes whichcan help to save and possiblyeven make you money. Here's anidea as to how the two currentschemes work:

Feed in Tariffs (or F.I.T) for Solar ElectricitysystemsDon't just generate electricity, you could generate payments as well...

• Your energy supplier will pay you a set rate for every unit or kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity you generate. This tariff willcontinue for 25 years, the payments are tax free and increase in line with inflation.

• For every unit of energy you generate butdo not use and export to the grid you willreceive an additional payment.

So, as a result of installing a solar energy system for your home, your bills will be lowerbecause you're buying less electricity fromyour supplier and your income will be higherfrom your Feed in Tariff.

Renewable Heat Incentive for Solar Thermal systems There is a limited budget available for the Renewable Heat Premium Payment incentive of£300 and can be applied via the Energy SavingsTrust from 1st August 2011 untill the 31st March2012 and then the second phase will be releasedas part of the ‘Green Deal’ in 2012.

Could solar energy save and make you money?Government incentives mean that by reducing your CO2emissions you could actually receive payments!


How the tariff works

Until smart meters are introduced into UK homes, it is deemed that50% of the electricity that is generated is exported back to the grid and the other 50% is used in your home.

USE &SAVE

EXPORT& SELL

Total benefitand

savings

=Generate


We have been in the business of offering our customers moneysaving home improvements for over a decade now. These include:

• Roofline products that include, fascias, soffits, guttering, and A rated energy efficient windows and doors.

• Innovations, such as solar energy that help people reduce their energy bills, their carbon footprint and their reliance on non-renewable fuel.

Setting the standard that sets Apple apartOur solar energy systems are always tailored exactly to your needs, your lifestyle and your home.

Our service starts with a full technical survey undertaken by one of our experts and only thenwill we tell you in a clear, concise and objectiveway exactly what solar energy can – and can't –do for you. If it's not suitable for your home orits situation, we'll tell you straight away.

And your service ends with our full guarantee,for your complete peace of mind.

Why Apple is good for youWe promise that this is what you can expectfrom us:

• Detailed discussions regarding your situation,the right solution for your home and whatyou can achieve from it.

• An accurate idea of how much energy youcan generate, what it will cost and what itwill save you.

• A clear description of the governmentschemes available and how each could help you generate an income as you generate power.

• An accurate, objective opinion on your suitability for solar energy. If any aspect of yourhome or its location makes it unsuitable – suchas the way it faces, lack of available space toaffix panels, overhanging trees or other shadedconsiderations – we'll make it clear.

• Calculations based on every aspect that may effect the efficiency of your solar energy system, from the way y our family uses electricity to the amount of sun yourhome receives.

• High quality, excellent value products; fullytrained and qualified professional installationteams plus helpful, friendly service and support at every stage of the process.

Apple is where homeowners always come firstWe thrive on saving people money


You can select from either aSolar Electricity System (knownas a PV or Photovoltaic system)which generates electricity, or a Solar Hot Water system (solarthermal) which heats your water.

Alternatively, you can choose to install both.We will advise you on the potential of thesystems to help you make an informed choice.

Solar energy – thenThough both types of solar energy systems use solar collectors that are generally roofmounted, those you probably saw most of in your area over the last few years werefor heating hot water. Traditionally, this typeof system was more popular.

Solar energy – nowWith the introduction of the government'sFeed In Tariff there has been a markedincrease in the number of Photovoltaicsystems now being installed.

In Germany, where the climate is almostidentical to ours, there has been a ten foldincrease in the installation of Photovoltaicsystems since their government introduced a tariff in 2004.

Similarly, the introduction of the RenewableHeat Premium Payment is also expected tolead to an increase in demand for solar hotwater systems.

When it comes to solar energy,things are warming upA Photovoltaic or Solar Hot Water system? You decide

Apple’s Solar Thermal systems usethe light from the sun to heat aspecially formulated, long life andnon-freezing fluid collected in thesolar panels on your roof. Thisfluid runs through pipework toheat your water.

How it works• Our highly effective systems use your solartube collectors to harness light from the sun(not heat), so they work on the coldest daysof winter and in the height of summer.Naturally, the longer the daylight, the moreheat is generated.

• This heated solar fluid is pumped aroundyour insulated pipework (to ensure heat isnot lost) then through a solar coil in yourhighly insulated hot water cylinder, heatingyour water.

• Your coil is designed to transfer themaximum amount of heat from the solarfluid to heat the water in your hot watercylinder, thereby saving on the conventionalenergy you would normally use to do this.

• Your installer will locate and presettemperature sensors in your new solarcylinder and collector and connect them toan intelligent control panel. This continuallymonitors the temperature difference andswitches the solar pump on and offaccordingly.

• Certain factors will affect the efficiency of your solar hot water system, such as the different levels of solar irradiationfalling on your home. Homes virtuallyanywhere in the UK can benefit to someextent from solar energy.

Other factors to consider include:• Location – south facing is best and mostproductive, followed by the south west andsoutheast, then west and east. North facingand shaded locations tend not to be suitable.

• Optimum angle – your collector is ideally setbetween 30° and 45°.

• Daylight hours – your system will work betterduring the longer, brighter summer days thandarker, shorter winter days.

• Results – depending on your hot waterusage, a solar hot wat er system couldproduce all your hot water in summer andmake a valuable contribution by preheatingyour water during the winter.

How the sun can get you into hot waterUnderstanding Solar Hot Water systems



Our solar thermal systems have been designed andmanufactured with a number ofconvenience and cost efficiencyfeatures and benefits built in.These include:

• Controller – gives you instant managementof your system using state of the artcomponents.

• Bespoke hot water cylinders – these arespecifically tailored for your installationrather than being off the shelf.

• Especially formulated eco friendly solarfluid – designed not to break down orfreeze, so you can relax.

• Customer care – our team won't leave yourhome until you are completely conversantwith your new system and can get the verybest from it.

The components of your systemOur innovative and proven solar hot watersystems are designed to make the very mostof the sun's rays, using highly efficient solarcollectors to turn the sun's light into heat andthen deliver it into your home in a low cost,low-carbon way.

Our collectors are efficient, cost effective, robust,long lasting and low maintenance, whenintegrated with the other components thatmake up you complete installation and deliverthe ideal source for much of your household'shot water requirements, all year round.

The benefits of a solar thermal systemDesigned and built for convenience and cost efficiency

Solar Thermal TubesManufactured from Borosilicate glass, these efficient evacuated tubes are neat anddesigned to capture the maximum amount of solar radiation.

Evacuated tubes are the absorber of the solar water heater. They absorb solar energyconverting it into heat for use in waterheating. Evacuated tubes have already beenused for years in Germany, Canada, Chinaand the UK.


The benefits of a solar thermal systemDesigned and built for convenience and cost efficiency

Pump stationOnce your controller hasindicated that the solarfluid has reached thecorrect temperature, oneof our powerful pumpstations will circulate itto heat the water in your tank.

Hot watercylinderYou will need a specialhot water cylinder toreplace your existingone, if you are tobenefit from a solar hotwater system. Thesecylinders essentiallywork in two ways: onecoil at the top is heatedby your central heatingsystem while a specialsolar coil at the bottomis fed from the solarpanels on your roof.Your cylinder will bedesigned, manufacturedand sized in line withyour installation.


Thermal controllersOur controllers play an integral role in yoursolar hot water solution. These are connectedto temperature sensors, which constantlymonitor the temperature of the solar fluid at strategic points in the system. When thetemperature of the solar fluid in your collectorsis hotter than the water in your hot watercylinder, the pump is activated to circulate the solar fluid around the system.

The controller is pre-programmed by yourexpert installer and is simplicity itself to use. The fast and easy to use settings are as follows:

• Standby and normal operation for solarand boiler heating of your hot water

• Solar only setting, for when the solarsystem can generate all your hot waterduring the summer

• Holiday setting which looks after yoursystem when you are away


Q: Is there enough sunshine in the UK for the collectors to work efficiently?

A: Yes. The collectors are designed for the Northern Hemisphere and will work even on dull days.

Q: How much hot water can I expect to gain?

A: Our collectors will produce approx. 50-60% of your domestichot water requirement over the year.

Q: Is there any maintenance?

A: No as the wind and rain clean them

Q: What is the life expectancy of the collector?

A: 30 + years

Frequently asked questions Solar Thermal

From our extensive experience of designing and installing solar energy systems, we've compileda shortlist of frequently asked questions regarding the subject.

We hope the list of FAQs below helps you but if there are still any questions you have or issuesyou'd like to discuss, please do not hesitate to call us on 0800 808 9237 or send an e-mail [email protected] or visit www.applesolarenergy.com


Q: Can I use my existing cylinder?

A: Generally not unless it already has a solar coil fitted.

Q: Will I need to get a new boiler for my solar thermal system?

A: No, your existing boiler will not be affected

Q: Do I need planning permission to install a solar collector?

A: Under normal circumstances Solar Panels come under permittedrights, unless you live in a conservation area or an ANOB or if yourproperty is listed.

Q: Will the installation cause a lot of disruption to my home?

A: No, most installations only take 1 day and disruption is kept to an absolute minimum

Note that the government has a similar scheme for solar thermal systems called the RenewableHeat Incentive, which is due for introduction in 2012 and the limited Renewable Heat PremiumPayment of £300 is available for installations after 1st August 2011 until 31st March 2012.

As we said right at the beginningof this brochure, your home, your lifestyle, your budget andyour energy usage are all unique.So we'll tailor our solar energysystems to suit you.

Right from the very start of the process we want to ensure that we understand your needsand aspirations as much as you understandwhat Apple solar energy can do for you, fromthe costs to the possible savings.

First and foremost we need to be suresolar energy is right for your homeSo we'll check:

• The amount of irradiation in your area

• The aspect of your home

• How much space you have available so we can design the right sized system

• Anything that will impede the efficiency of your solar energy system, such as overhanging trees or chimneys.

We'll do all we can to ensure the system youbuy is right for you, not for us. And only onceyou are completely happy, will we plan andimplement your system for you, at a time thatsuits you, so you can start saving money andcarbon emissions.

Your successful solar energyinstallation in 10 easy stepsNo two installations are the same

10 EASY steps to save money


1 Your first step to a solar powered homeCall us free on 0800 808 9237, or e-mail [email protected] or visitwww.applesolarenergy.com to make anappointment with one of our specialist team.They'll answer all your questions, fully discuss andunderstand your individual requirements and thengive you a free no obligation quotation.

6 Working from the outside inThe external elements of your solar panel installationtake place, with secure fixing to your roof.

2 Getting it right, first time Your Apple solar energy surveyor is equippedwith a software application which willprovide you with specific details of yourlocation, your roof angle and orientation toensure solar energy is right for your home.

7 Moving insideWe then install the internal components of yoursolar system, creating the minimum of disruptionand ensuring a neat and professional finish.

3 Attention to detail ensures successA more detailed survey will follow from your consultation. Our expert surveyor willthoroughly check your roof and take the precisemeasurements that we need for installation.

8 Switch on and testOnce all the installation work has been completedand all connections made, we switch on, test anddouble check that every aspect of your installationis functioning correctly.

4 Respecting the lawTo save you the time and trouble, we willobtain Building Regulations approval on yourbehalf and thus ensure that your installationcomplies with the appropriate regulations.

9 Getting the best from your systemOnce your new solar system is complete, we will show and fully explain how it works,so you can gain maximum benefit from it,from day one.

5 The scaffolding goes upWhen required we will erect appropriatescaffolding to ensure the safety of both youand our installers during installation.

To find out how you could reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint, while increasing your income from generatingelectricity you don't use, call free on 0800 808 9237, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.applesolarenergy.com

10 An after sales service that's simply second to noneOur comprehensive ten year guarantee isdesigned to give you complete peace of mindand covers your entire solar energy system.


Our promise, is to make you happyWhat our customers have to say...

“The installation was quite rapid and wentsmoothly and so here is a short progressreport on the very first month of installationof my PV panels. The first 28 days in July gave me 484kW. This is very encouraging as this year July was overcast on quite a few days here on the Sussex coast because of sea mist.

“I was very amused to see the meter merrily spinning backwards when the sun was shining.”

Professor Peter TownsendBrighton Sussex



“I would just like to say how happy I was with the information given by the surveyorprior to installation and as promised the work was completed within the timespecified, even though the electrician had to work in extreme heat.

“With west facing orientation we haveachieved 20kwh.”

Mr and Mrs GarwoodPetersfield Hampshire



“We recently had PV panels fitted by AppleSolar to our property in Christchurch. We are more than satisfied with the work whichwas carried out and would like you to pass on our sincere thanks to all involved.

“Suffice to say, the system is working very well and even at this time of the year we are gaining more units of electricity than we use on sunny days. What is reallysatisfying is seeing the disc on our electricmeter go backwards and the units used decrease!”

Ken and Jenny ParkinsonChristchurch

Dorset



“My wife and I are very pleased with our Apple solar panels that have been fitted to our bungalow.

“I must say the service we received was firstclass from start to finish.”

Mr and Mrs AndersonHedge End

SouthamptonHampshire


“We should like to congratulate Apple SolarEnergy on their efficient and friendly service forthe installation of our Solar Panels. We werevery relieved to learn that all of the panel fixingwas carried out from the outside and thescaffolders were able to take all the scaffoldingdown the following afternoon. The inverter wasfitted with a Bluetooth transmitter, so we areable to monitor performance without having toclimb into the loft! So after just under 4 days wehave generated 30KwH, in cloudy weather withonly about 30% sunshine. Our best day yielded11.4KwH (with 8 panels).”


Peter & Clare Hill Hayling Island

Hampshire


“A manager came to give an explanation ofhow the system works and the electricity itcould produce. Arrangements were made fora surveyor to check the number of panelsordered were correct and would fit.

“Installation was booked and the work wascompleted in 2 days. The Apple work teamwere all very efficient and carried out theirwork professionally. We are extremelypleased with the system.”

Mr and Mrs YollandWest End

SouthamptonHampshire


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