päikeseküttevõrgud

Päikeseküttevõrgud, also known as solar thermal networks, are a system designed to capture solar energy and distribute it for heating purposes within a community or a group of buildings. These networks typically consist of large solar collectors, which absorb sunlight and heat a fluid, usually water or a water-glycol mixture. This heated fluid is then circulated through a network of insulated pipes to connected buildings.

The primary function of a päikeseküttevõrk is to provide a renewable and sustainable source of heat for domestic hot water and space heating. By utilizing solar energy, these systems reduce reliance on fossil fuels, leading to lower carbon emissions and potentially reduced energy costs for consumers. The collected solar heat can be stored in large thermal storage tanks, allowing for heat availability even when the sun is not shining, such as during the night or on cloudy days.

Päikeseküttevõrgud are often implemented in new developments or as part of urban renewal projects where the infrastructure for centralized heating and cooling can be efficiently integrated. The design and scale of these networks can vary significantly, from serving a small cluster of houses to supplying heat for entire neighborhoods or even districts. The efficiency and effectiveness of a päikeseküttevõrk depend on factors such as the intensity of solar radiation, the size and efficiency of the collectors, the quality of insulation in the piping, and the thermal demand of the connected buildings.