Solar and Radiators UK

Can solar panels heat radiators?

Can solar panels power your radiators? Not directly — but effectively yes with the right setup: OPTION 1 — SOLAR + HEAT PUMP + WET RADIATORS: Solar generates free electricity. Heat pump uses that electricity to heat water for your existing radiators. COP 3-4 means 1kWh solar = 3-4kWh of heat. This is the most efficient way to heat radiators with solar. OPTION 2 — ELECTRIC RADIATORS ON SOLAR: Electric panel radiators (500-2,000W each) can run directly on solar-generated electricity during the day. Simple but less efficient than a heat pump (1kWh solar = 1kWh heat vs 3-4kWh). OPTION 3 — SOLAR + IMMERSION + THERMAL STORE: Surplus solar heats a thermal store via immersion. Hot water from the store circulates through radiators. Good for retrofit. BEST VALUE: Option 1 (solar + heat pump) for whole-house heating. Option 2 for supplementary daytime heating in specific rooms.