The potential for solar space heating in Scotland

Abstract

SYNOPSIS This paper investigates the relative effectiveness of passive-type solar-assisted space heating systems at various latitudes within the British Isles. A comparison is made of the useful solar gain of the same system linked to the same house at four different locations. Month by month energy balances indicate that the annual useful solar contribution at the highest latitude (Lerwick, 60°N) is about 35% higher than at the lowest latitude (Kew, 53°N). The main reason for this difference is the higher heating loads in the North, particularly outside the winter months. The estimated available irradiation on south facing vertical surfaces was almost the same at all four locations. Previous work in the UK indicates that, contrary to the conclusions in this paper, more southerly latitudes were the most favourable for solar space heating. The reasons for the disparity are discussed. It is recommended that research and development of passive solar-assisted space heating systems should be most vigorously pu...