Did you know that solar energy can be harnessed to heat your water supply too? It’s true. By installing (or having professionally installed) solar thermal panels and ancillary equipment, you can utilise a copious natural resource to heat your water supply for a great part of the year. Often, just daylight will suffice The great thing about solar panels is that you don’t need hour after hour of direct sunlight for them to work; as long as it is daylight, energy can be created by your panels to heat the water inside your existing cylinder, or in a new cylinder which you can easily purchase from us at Stoves & Solar – UK leaders in renewable energy products. What’s more, in all likelihood, you won’t require Planning Permission from your Local Authority before making your investment in solar thermal panels for water heating (but it is advisable to quickly check with them first). The different types of panels Evacuated tube panels and flat plate panels are the two most commonly installed solar thermal panels. But there are other options. Take a look! Solar energy can be used to heat your water supply at your home and/or your business premises for most of the year.  Get an income from 'going solar' The Government has two types of schemes designed to help solar energy users make money from generated heat that they don't use. Domestic users should go here: the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) Scheme. You’re a potential commercial solar panels user? Take a look at this link: Non-Domestic Renewable Heating Incentive (RHI) scheme. Are you a qualified and experienced installer of solar energy solutions? Contact us today on e-mail sales@stovesandsolar.com to find out about joining our network or approved installers. We also have training courses available for solar professionals looking to extend their knowledge.