Basic Idea: Instead of using the sun's energy to generate electricity through photovoltaics, we use the sun's energy to heat up our hot water. We install a different type of solar panel on your roof called a collector. Then we pump a heat exchanger fluid through the collector which transfers the heat to your hot water tank.

Benefits: Solar domestic hot water is the most efficient use of solar energy. Systems will provide 60 to 80% of your entire hot water needs. Return on investment can be less than 4 years Federal and State incentives cover up to 80% of the costs including installation Typically provides 90 to 100% of hot water during summer months Typical systems are 1/3 cost of basic PV

Important Note: If you have an electric hot water heater you are wasting money if you get PV first.

Solar hot water = 1/3 cost of PV with a payback twice as fast.