Premier Power Installs Solar in the Czech Republic

Did you know that the Czech Republic has the highest feed-in tariff in the world? Although the solar industry there is just getting started, we predict it’s going to be big. (Paying people .48 euros per kilowatt-hour of renewable energy tends to have that effect.)

As an international solar installer, Premier Power is right in the middle of the green energy movement in Europe. Along with our ongoing projects in Spain and Italy, we’ve agreed to install 19Mws of solar power in the Czech Republic in a joint venture with Plaan Czech. The first two projects (3Mw in total) are already well underway. Our president Dean Marks commented, “Our expansion into the Czech Republic fits with our strategy to establish a strong presence in those European markets where their governments have recognized and are promoting alternative energy, and in particular solar power.”

Although we’re now an international company, Premier Power continues to be committed to bringing Americans the finest solar power systems. Check out our site to see if we install solar in your area and to get a free solar evaluation.

Solar Photovoltaic vs. Solar Thermal

We here at Premier Power often get asked what the difference between solar thermal and solar photovoltaic systems is (followed by questions about which one is a better investment, more cost-effective, more aesthetic, etc.). We can answer the first with certainty, but because your home and lifestyle are unique, please give us a call (1-888-232-0353) or contact us for answers to the others. 

How are solar thermal and solar photovoltaic different?

 A solar thermal system collects solar heat energy and generally uses it to either heat water directly, or to heat liquids that will then transfer their heat to water. Solar thermal heat can then be used for water or space heating. In largescale solar thermal plants, the heat can be used to run steam turbines. In contrast, a solar photovoltaic system is one that collects sunlight and converts it into electricity. It’s a little more complicated than that, but you get the idea. (Read the full explanation of photovoltaic power with its semi-conductor materials, electrons, inverters, etc.)

What are the pros and cons of solar photovoltaic technology?

Solar photovoltaic produces clean, green electricity, which is more versatile than hot water and can cut household electricity bills by 60% or more. In the summer, electricity generated by solar panels can run air conditioning. In contrast, while solar thermal systems also reach peak performance in summer, the hot water they produce might not be all that useful in the summer. Although both technologies are low maintenance, solar photovoltaic has no moving parts to break down or wear out. The major caveat: solar photovoltaic technology remains less efficient at using the sun’s energy than solar thermal and generally requires a greater upfront investment.

 

What are the pros and cons of solar thermal? 

Solar thermal is up to 70% efficient and requires less roof space and initial investment than solar photovoltaic. It has a long history of use in Japan and Europe. Additionally, because it doesn’t involve expensive or toxic semi-conductive materials, solar thermal has a shorter payback time. Water and space heating are a major household expense, especially in the fall and winter. However, even though new solar thermal technology has greatly improved its performance in the winter, it remains somewhat less versatile than solar photovoltaic. 

Our bottom line: Either solar technology is better than relying on fossil fuels and pollutant energy sources. Some houses even combine both to rely primarily on solar energy for electricity and heating. Both will pay for themselves well within their lifetimes. Excited? Don’t forget to get your free solar consultation!