SOLAR THERMAL SYSTEMS: CURRENT SITUATION AND AMBITIOUS GOALS

Abstract

Solar thermal energy is a straightforward application of renewable energy. The unique advantage of solar heating and cooling technologies is that they are compatible with nearly all sources of back-up heat and almost universally applicable due to their ability to deliver hot water, hot air and cold air. It is estimated that solar energy technologies can provide more than 50% of low temperature heating and cooling demand for buildings in 2050 and contribute a significant share to the heat supply for the agricultural and industrial sectors. Thus, solar heating and cooling will contribute significantly to lowering CO₂ emissions worldwide and reaching the Paris Agreement goal. If the direct use of solar energy for heating purposes via solar collectors, as shown in the sustained energy scenarios, is to make a significant contribution to the energy supply, it is necessary that solar-heating technologies be developed and widely applied over and beyond the field of domestic-hot-water preparation only. In order to stimulate investment, governments must take the lead role in creating a favourable investment climate for widespread use of solar heating and cooling. Measures and directions are proposed in current review.