Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Volther Hybrid PV-T collector?

A PV-T collector is a combined assembly of a: PV module - for the conversion of electrical energy and a high efficiency flat plate solar collector - for the conversion of thermal energy.

Photovoltaics (PV) as semiconductors have one drawback: degradation in performance due to temperature. In the UK on a sunny midsummer's day, when one would expect PV to be producing at peak capacity, panel temperatures can reach over 100oC. At this temperature the system will produce less than 10% of its maximum output, rendering it largely useless for much of the day.

What is a solar thermal collector?

Traditional solar thermal installations collect the sun's heat and convert this into hot water, typically meeting a property's summer hot water requirements. A major drawback is that in times of little or no sun there is little or no hot water.

What does Newform Energy do?

Newform Energy is a wholesale provider of affordable renewable energy products across a broad customer base including public sector bodies, utility companies, large housing developers, hotels, schools, building merchants, self-builders, architects, and a distribution network of accredited installers and other renewable energy companies.

At the core of the business is a range of Hybrid PV-T (photovoltaic thermal), solar PV and Solar Thermal products, all of which are MCS accredited.

Is the hybrid solution aimed primarily at those with limited roof space who wouldn’t be able to do 2 separate installations or for anyone?

Not at all, it's a perfect solution for well insulated homes equipped with low temperature heating systems (underfloor heating, fan convector radiators, etc). It's particularly well-suited therefore to new build properties
How many customers do you have in the UK right now and is there a typical size of system? We have, literally, dozens of projects in the pipeline. A "typical" system will comprise 20 PowerVolt panels, with 3.80 kW of peak electrical capacity.

Is it cheaper than installing a PV solution and a separate solar thermal solution?

No, since it also incorporates a water/water heat pump used to upgrade low grade solar thermal output to temperatures sufficient for domestic hot water and low temperature heating systems.

Do you need a minimum roof area?

A standard 20 panel installation will require a roof area of 30 square metres, unshaded and unencumbered by dormer windows, rooflights, etc.

In terms of efficiency, is your solution close to the efficiency levels of a pure PV and solar thermal solution? If they are less efficient how does this impact on financial returns?

Approximately 15% more efficient than a standard PV installation of the same capacity, less thermally efficient than conventional solar thermal, but the heat pump renders this inconsequential. The relative inefficiency of the solar thermal system is a benefit in that there is no risk of excessive thermal output leading to "stagnation".

In terms of mounting (either ground or roof), are they similar to mounting a PV panel? ie. ideally 35 degrees, south facing etc.

Very similar to PV, although obviously the thermal connections make it more complicated from an installation point of view.

What would you advise customers need to check before they consider this option eg. suitable hot water tank etc.?

An appropriate hot water cylinder is essential for the system to function correctly.

Are there circumstances where would you not use your hybrid solution – if so please provide details?

Smaller roofs will not allow for sufficient panels to be installed to provide pre-heat for the heat pump - in this case we would specify a "PVT only" solution. Thermally inefficient houses, houses with very high heat loads, and houses with conventional radiator systems are all less than ideal.

Can you confirm the system is MCS accredited and people can claim FiT in exactly the same way as other PV solutions?

Final MCS accreditation for the panels is expected any day now, in the meantime they remain on the "Transition List" enabling customers to claim FiT. Once fully accredited, the panels will also qualify for Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) for solar thermal output (subject to the government releasing the final details). The heat pump is MCS accredited, and should also therefore qualify for RHI, subject to final details of the scheme.

Who installs your solution? Do you have a network of installers? Do you cover the whole of UK or just specific areas?

Installation is outsourced to MCS accredited installers, we have a good degree of coverage and are looking to extend this. Any installer with accreditation for PV, Solar Thermal and Heat Pumps can install the system, though they require training specific to the system.

What sort of warantee do you offer on the kit?

Manufacturers' warranties apply. The PowerVolt warranty is considered "best in class" by some customers.

How do you offer customers peace of mind that you’ll be able to sort out any problems with the kit over the next 25 years?

We are committed to excellence in our field, however, as in all businesses, there are no guarantees, and as such the best fallback is Manufacturers' Warranties.

What do you think will happen when RHI is launched? Are you hoping customers will be able to claim FiT and RHI?

Our systems are accredited for both schemes, and we therefore see no reasons why customers should not be able to claim both. However, the government's constant delays in announcing final details for the residential RHI mean we are unable to guarantee this.

If someone purchases now can they claim the Renewable Heat Premium Payment?

We have been told unofficially that customers should be able to claim RHPP once the panels are fully accredited, although this has not been formally acknowledged. Details are sketchy at best for water/water heat pumps - we await with interest the results RHPP claims for this component, the first of which will be made in September.

Can PVT be installed ground level eg. 100 ft from house?

Yes, as long as the panels are unshaded.