Distinction Between Solar PV and Solar Thermal Panels; Which One is Better?

Solar PV vs Solar Thermal | Best System for UK Homes

As energy costs rise and climate concerns grow, solar energy is becoming increasingly popular for homeowners across North and West London. But if you’re thinking about going solar, you’ve likely come across two main options: Solar PV panels and Solar Thermal panels.

So, what’s the difference—and which one is better for you?

Let’s break it down in this comprehensive guide from A&C Heating and Plumbing Ltd.

⚡ Quick Definition

🌞 What Are Solar PV Panels?

Solar PV (photovoltaic) panels convert sunlight into electricity using semi-conducting materials (usually silicon). This electricity can be used in real-time or stored in solar batteries.

✅ Pros of Solar PV:

• Produces electricity year-round

• Can reduce reliance on the grid

• Compatible with solar batteries and EV chargers

• Eligible for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments

• Long lifespan (20–30+ years)

❌ Cons:

• Higher upfront costs

• May require inverter & battery for max efficiency

🔥 What Are Solar Thermal Panels?

Solar thermal panels (also called solar hot water panels) capture sun’s heat and transfer it to your water cylinder via a heat exchanger.

✅ Pros of Solar Thermal:

• Highly efficient at heating water

• Works well alongside existing boiler systems

• Lower cost than PV panels

• Ideal for homes with high hot water demand

❌ Cons:

• Can’t generate electricity

• Less useful in winter months

• Needs space for a hot water cylinder

🔍 Key Differences Between Solar PV and Solar Thermal

🏠 Which One Is Better?

It depends on your needs:

• Choose Solar PV if:

  • You want to cut electricity bills

  • You plan to install a battery or electric vehicle charger

  • You want future-proof energy solutions

• Choose Solar Thermal if:

  • You have high hot water usage

  • You want a low-cost solar option

  • You already have a hot water cylinder

💡 Some homeowners choose both, using PV for electricity and thermal for water heating!

📍 We Install Solar Systems Across North & West London

At A&C Heating and Plumbing Ltd., we offer full installation and maintenance for:

• ✅ Solar PV systems

• ✅ Solar thermal systems

• ✅ Hybrid solar & boiler integration

✅ Areas We Cover:

North London – Barnet, Edgware, Camden, Finchley, Haringey, Kentish Town
West London – Ealing, Acton, Chiswick, Brentford, Hounslow, Wandsworth

📞 Get a Free Solar Assessment

Ready to go solar? We offer free consultations, professional installations, and expert advice to help you choose the right system.

📲 Call Us: 0779 559 5757
☀️ Start saving with solar energy today!