We need to talk about heat
Climate change presents an unprecedented challenge. We have less than 10 years to reverse the growth of our emissions, to keep warming within 1.5°C and so avoid the risk of catastrophic climate change. This is the decade to deliver. The time for talking is over.
Heating and cooling present one of the key challenges for businesses committed to reducing their carbon footprint. Heat accounts for over half (51%) of global energy demand and is still generated primarily through the burning of fossil fuels. If we are to have any chance of delivering on our net zero carbon goals, we therefore need to tackle heat. And we need to act fast.
Solar thermal plays an important role in the energy transition
Reliance on fossil fuel presents price, reputation and regulatory risk.
Unlike electricity, heat must be generated locally as it can’t be transported easily.
Distributed renewable heating systems provide a reliable, affordable and more resilient energy infrastructure which is key to a fair transition to net zero carbon.
Solar thermal provides a most efficient, high density means of providing zero carbon heat, presenting a cost effective alternative to the electrification of heat.
Additionally, seasonal storage enables end-users to benefit from solar thermal throughout the year. Thermal energy is collected and stored in warmer months and can be used in the opposing season when it is needed most.
This also relieves the increasing burden being placed on the electricity grid as the world electrifies transport and moves away from gas.
Indeed the solar thermal industry is expected to grow to $36 Billion by 2026. And, according to the International Energy Agency, solar thermal and geothermal will meet 75% of all heat demand by 2050.
If you are serious about decarbonising, you must tackle heat. And if you are concerned about the cost, solar thermal presents the solution.