Solar Technology in the Garden

Do you know all the things you can do in your garden with solar technology? We'll show you some of the possibilities that modern solar tech offers.

First, it's important to distinguish between the two fundamental principles that harness solar energy. One is solar thermal energy, which uses sunlight to heat substances like liquids or air. The other involves special technologies that convert incoming solar energy into electrical energy. This technology is called photovoltaics.

While there are a few other ways to use solar energy, they're typically not yet readily available or are difficult for consumers to acquire, so we'll focus on the most common ones here.

If you wish, you can have a suitable photovoltaic system installed on your roof, which can produce electricity for your own consumption and for feeding into the public grid.

But with photovoltaics, you can do significantly more around your house and garden. So-called island systems, in particular, are a great strength for garden owners. With the help of solar cells, electricity is generated right where it's needed. This eliminates the need for laying long cables, and installation is quickly completed. However, since electricity can only be generated when there is daylight, rechargeable batteries, usually integrated into the devices, help out. They supply power whenever it's needed.

For example, solar-powered LED lamps now illuminate house numbers, paths, ponds, flowerbeds, patios, and much more, reliably and for many hours. Combined with motion detectors, they also provide security around your house with bright spotlights.

Solar cells also supply the electricity that powers pond pumps and even swimming pool pumps, allowing you to save real money daily and make an active contribution to energy reform.

Solar collectors on the roofs of your home and garden shed can heat domestic and heating water. They can also warm your pool water by a few degrees, significantly extending your swimming season. Solar-powered garden showers also add to the enjoyment of your garden.

Special warm-air collectors have been developed specifically for garden sheds and weekend homes. These are mounted on exterior walls and produce warm air, significantly improving the indoor climate in such structures. Even if you aren't there regularly to ventilate, these systems provide fresh, warm air, eliminating any chance of mildew and mold.

If you enjoy trying new things, you could also get a special solar cooker. While it might not necessarily speed up pizza baking or stew cooking, it's definitely a lot of fun.