Cyprus-Forum.com

[supporttheunderdog]

It may seem a bit strange but I understand it is possible to use the heat of the sun to provide cooling....

Does anyone know of any suppliers of Domestic/Residential Solar powered Absorbtion chiller airconditioning systems (heating/cooling) system in Cyprus?

These use the free energy of the sun to generate the energy intensive heating/chilling cycles and only limited electricity to drive low-powered circulating pumps, rather than costly electricity. I am looking at seeing if there is any cost/benefit in replacing the rather more conventional compressor driven type, which are very costly to run.

[Capt J Sparrow]

Have you ever thought about solar panels.

This might be a more reliable means of harnessing Solar Energy, particularly here in Cyprus.

[Sotos]

Are we talking about photovoltaic panels that generate electricity which in turns powers the AC unit or something different that can power the AC in a more efficient way? Since AC units need a lot of power I guess it would take very big photovoltaic panels to power them.

[Capt J Sparrow]

Are we talking about photovoltaic panels that generate electricity which in turns powers the AC unit or something different that can power the AC in a more efficient way? Since AC units need a lot of power I guess it would take very big photovoltaic panels to power them.

Yes I am talking about photovoltaic panels to generate electricity from the sun.

Personally, I prefer this rather than Solar AC which you will only be able to use during the day. But of course, it would pay to have a modern efficient AC, otherwise you will be wasting the power you generate.

Depending on how many panels you install, you can actually generate more power than what you use in a 24 hour period. It really works.

[Sotos]

I am building my home and I decided against the photovoltaic panels. They are expensive and until they pay back for their cost they would need to be changed. So they are not a very economical proposal right now. They should first become cheaper and more efficient and then everybody will have them. But in Cyprus most people have solar panels to help heat the water. These are rather cheap and they can last a lifetime so it makes sense to use them.

[Capt J Sparrow]

I am building my home and I decided against the photovoltaic panels. They are expensive and until they pay back for their cost they would need to be changed. So they are not a very economical proposal right now. They should first become cheaper and more efficient and then everybody will have them. But in Cyprus most people have solar panels to help heat the water. These are rather cheap and they can last a lifetime so it makes sense to use them.

PV panels last a life time. They should last a minimum of 25 years. Some companies guarantee the panels for 30 years.

Sotos, I like to be self sufficient. So for me, they are worth it. Pay back time I calculated to be 6-8 years. But the best thing is that it is good for the environment.

[Get Real!]

I am building my home and I decided against the photovoltaic panels. They are expensive and until they pay back for their cost they would need to be changed. So they are not a very economical proposal right now. They should first become cheaper and more efficient and then everybody will have them. But in Cyprus most people have solar panels to help heat the water. These are rather cheap and they can last a lifetime so it makes sense to use them.

I decided against them too although that was about 5 years ago and technology of course changes.

My main gripes at the time were that…
1. They’re very ugly which devalues the home. Your rooftop will look like a nightmare.
2. The Electricity authority is in full control of the relationship.
3. Way overpriced.
4. Issues with parts, maintenance, etc.
5. RoC govt subsidies take too long to find you.

[Get Real!]

solar powered A/C

The concept is fantastic for sunny countries like Cyprus, but it takes a LOT of power to drive a decent aircon system which is usually 3-phase and I don’t know if they’ve come up with anything yet that can deliver that much power and remain small and elegant.

[Capt J Sparrow]

I believe they should add considerable value to the home. They don't look ugly, in fact you can turn them into a bit of a feature.

But you are right with the rest of it. The Electricity Authority is in full control, and they are expensive. But there are no issues with maintenance and parts and all workmanship is under warranty including all materials such as the panels with are under warranty for 30 years.

[Get Real!]

I believe they should add considerable value to the home. They don't look ugly, in fact you can turn them into a bit of a feature.

But you are right with the rest of it. The Electricity Authority is in full control, and they are expensive. But there are no issues with maintenance and parts and all workmanship is under warranty including all materials such as the panels with are under warranty for 30 years.

Incorporating new technologies to a house in Cyprus is always risky because everything is imported by a single individual so he holds you by the balls! You gotta be really careful not to sign a contract with a devil!