While using solar thermal energy to heat domestic water is fairly standard practice throughout the world, the U.S. is certainly not at the head of its class in this subject!  The American public is starting to show considerable interest in solar because people are asking for ways to cut sizeable chunks from their heating bill, which for many is their largest utility bill.  And for some, solar thermal energy can drastically decrease the dependence on fossil fuels for heating needs. 

These systems are also economically viable because the investment will pay for itself in approximately 10 to 15 years.  There were many solar air systems installed starting in the late ‘70s, but technology at that time did not allow for the capacity to store energy for later use.  With solar thermal energy, we have the ability to store heat and use it even when the sun is not shining.

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