How does solar thermal compare to solar PV?
If you are asking the question, then you probably need to know the major differences between the two renewable energy systems that use the power of the sun.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) power is probably what you are most familiar with. PV panels are the blue-shaded rectangular installations that include silicon solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity. These are typically installed on individual properties to supply distributed generated electricity.
On the other hand solar thermal is utility-scale solar power. Using parabolic mirrors to concentrate sunlight to super heat water in a tower to create steam and turn generators, solar thermal is more efficient than solar PV.
Just how more efficient?
PV has an efficiency rate of about 12%, costing approximately 25-35 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). On the other hand, solar thermal boasts an impressive 55% efficiency, at a mere 12-15 cents per kWh.
PV solar panels tend to get more attention because they are heavily subsidized by governments. This is in part because people believe that they have the longest payback. But others believe that the lowest-cost energy technology – solar thermal – should be promoted over photovoltaics.
What are your thoughts? Solar thermal or solar PV?