Virtu - Pushed to the Limits

There are two product models: VirtuPVT and VirtuHOT. Both products are modular and designed to be flexible and meet various levels of demand. Each model can be supplied with reflectors or without. VirtuPVT has a standard absorber angle of 35°and VirtuHOT can be manufactured with different absorber angle specifications at either -20°, 0°, +20°, +35° with the angle being dependent on the installation requirements.

Our products are designed for maximum efficiency. In both high density (HD) and non-high density models, the PVT tubes are the same. Non-HD models include reflectors between the tubes, whereas HD projects don’t. Project location informs whether HD or non-HD models will be installed. HD models are typically installed on sloped roofs in locations close to the equator.

VirtuPVT delivers up to 4x more energy than solar PV, and more carbon savings for many public, industrial and commercial buildings that require hot water or other forms of heat. It also delivers lower running costs and better return on investment than standard PV systems.

VirtuPVT has a market-leading peak efficiency of up to 80%, at 20% PV and 60% thermal. VirtuPVT displaces more fossil fuels than other distributed renewable energy systems, and generates greater carbon savings. VirtuPVT generates both clean electricity and heat, which dramatically reduces both Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, and contributes to net zero goals.

A single hybrid collector reduces installation time as well as costs. It delivers more carbon savings than separate solar PV and solar thermal products, and the result is overall greater return on investment. Additionally, Virtu’s beautiful aesthetics distinguish them from other collectors in the marketplace.

Yes. Virtu is a complementary rather than a competitor product to heat pumps. Virtu can be combined with ground and air-source heat pumps to support their overall performance and provide an alternative source of heat when the sun isn’t shining. However, the carbon emissions and operating costs of a heat pump will vary depending on the local grid when operated without solar power.

Yes, solar thermal still works in the winter. But like all solar products, Virtu generates more energy during the summer months. However, seasonal thermal 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. A prime example of a large-scale thermal storage project is Drake Landing Solar Community in Canada: https://www.dlsc.ca/borehole.htm

Water and propylene glycol mixture are used to avoid freezing in winter. The correct glycol concentration is determined by the location of the project. In locations where freezing temperatures don’t occur, it is possible to use de-ionised water without glycol.

Our product does not require any more maintenance than conventional solar thermal or solar PV arrays and generally requires very little maintenance to function. We work with trusted partners to install Virtu products, following strict installation methodologies to achieve the best possible results. The performance of our Virtu products is monitored digitally and in real-time with our Clarity247 platform. Well-maintained systems can expect a productive lifetime of at least 20-years.

We ensure that our products meet robust certification and the highest industry standards. The standards included in our Solar Keymark certification are: ISO 9001, EN 61730, EN 61215-1, ISO 9806, EN 12975. They cover our supply chain, the manufacturing of our products.

Yes. We ensure that our products meet robust certification and quality assurance standards. Our standard warranty is five years. However, customers who use an approved installer and take O&M will receive the maximum industry warranty of 10 years.