Solar Thermal - Overview

Sun energy collectors for a sustainable future

The use of solar thermal energy panels is an extremely effective way of providing hot water for domestic and commercial applications, particularly in the Spring, Summer and Autumn when the angle/azimuth of the sun is at its highest for the UK. Solar collectors can also provide limited heating, if required.

The sun stream range of solar collectors - vacuum or flat plate - provided by WDS Environmental are some of the most advanced on the market, and ensure the maximum usage of sun energy at all times.

The panels are modular in design with a range of sizes for almost every application from domestic housing to large commercial installations. They have been installed in over 100,000 sites in the UK and Europe with great success.

They can be used for domestic hot water or integrated into other energy systems, such as ground source heat pumps, to provide heating and hot water thereby minimising fossil fuel usage and carbon emissions.

With both flat plate and vacuum tube panels being available, almost every type of roofing system can be accommodated, from existing roofs fitted with vacuum tubes to new slate roofs incorporating flat panels.

Vacuum Tube

  • The circular design of tubes ensures a perpendicular absorber area throughout the day
  • Solar radiance from behind the tubes induced by an aluminium reflector maximises the free energy
  • Service life of 25 - 30 years
  • Produces energy at the lowest cost per kW
  • The manifold and frame are made from black powder-coated galvanised steel for long life usage
  • The manifold insulation comprises Polyethylene foam to limit heat loss
  • A working temperature up to 250ºC
  • Panels approved to EN Certificate No 12975-1/2

Flat Plate Panels

  • Light weight construction, only 53 kilos, for ease of installation
  • Anodised aluminium used through for durability
  • Titanium oxide surface ensures low reflectivity
  • Low heat loss
  • Tempered 4mm solar glass for maximum heat absorption
  • Frame fully insulated with mineral wool