Solar thermal collector converts solar radiation energy into useful thermal energy and transfers to a transport fluid flowing through the system. The collected energy can be used either direct to space or water heating equipment, or to a thermal storage for later use. Along with fast development, not only domestic hot water supply is needed, but also space heating and cooling are required. Also, limited roof space is another key barrier that should be considered. Furthermore, most of the building integration with solar collectors are mounted on the roof top by flat or tilt angle at present. It is considered to be a failure of low level architectural quality because the collector is used only for application and seems as an independent technical element of the building. With the consideration of the above, novel type of solar collector has been proposed to realize the utilization and offset the barriers. This novel solar collectors is especially suitable to supply domestic hot water, and combines with ASHP for multi-function, space heating and cooling as well as domestic hot water supply. Additionally, it is well integrated with high-rise residential buildings, which is good for aesthetic.
Electric Heating of Domestic Hot Water Supply