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DOMESTIC RENEWABLES
Smart cylinders aid the transition
Smart cylinders play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, driving the adoption of renewable energy solutions. Pete Armstrong, chief executive of
Mixergy, shares insights on how these innovative cylinders can signifi cantly aid heating installers in transitioning to the renewables market
Integration For installers of gas boilers looking to expand into the renewable energy sector, smart cylinders off er a perfect solution. These cylinders can operate with existing gas boilers while also preparing customers’ heating systems for integration with renewables in the future. By adding a plate heat exchanger, the same cylinder can seamlessly integrate with a heat pump in the future, eliminating the need for replacement. Homeowners can also connect their smart
cylinders to solar PV systems with a Mixergy solar diverter. Excess electricity generated by solar panels can be stored in the smart cylinder as heated water, providing an energy reserve for times when solar production is low. Moreover, smart cylinders can take advantage of smart electricity tariff s by heating water during off - peak times when electricity is cheaper. A crucial aspect is Demand Side Response (DSR). The cylinder can work in tandem with the National
Grid. On extremely sunny or windy days, when too much electricity is produced, the National Grid can activate the immersion heaters in smart cylinders to absorb the surplus energy, maintaining the grid’s balance at 50 Hertz. Integrated heat pump cylinders serve as an intermediate technology for homeowners who are beginning their journey into renewable energy but aren’t ready for a complete system overhaul.
Enhancing installers’ off erings
By incorporating smart cylinders, installers can provide customers with more advanced, effi cient, and environmentally friendly water heating solutions. This is a compelling proposition in the expanding renewables market. Customers benefi t from reduced energy bills and the satisfaction of lowering their carbon footprint. Smart cylinders are designed to be adaptable to new technologies and energy sources, ensuring long- term relevance and effi ciency. This adaptability is a
Smart cylinders are designed to be adaptable to new technologies and energy sources, ensuring long- term relevance and effi ciency. This adaptability is a signifi cant advantage for installers aiming to off er sustainable solutions.
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signifi cant advantage for installers aiming to off er sustainable solutions. Many smart cylinders come equipped with user-
friendly apps and interfaces, enabling customers to remotely monitor the performance of their cylinder and control their heating systems. This functionality means they can ensure it is working at optimal effi ciency and that any potential issues are detected early. This enhances customer satisfaction and help to maximise their investment in renewable technology.
The importance of upskilling
Training in the installation and maintenance of smart cylinders and renewable systems enhances an installer’s skill set and marketability. With the increasing discussion around alternatives to gas and the ongoing heating transition, it is crucial for installers to future-proof their businesses. Installers need their G3 Unvented certifi cation to
install regular unvented cylinders. Manufacturers, such as Mixergy, also off er training on smart cylinders and integrated heat pump cylinders. This training allows installers to expand their service off erings and confi dently discuss these technologies with customers, boosting their credentials and credibility.
Finally…
Installing smart cylinders off ers many benefi ts for heating installers entering the renewables market, including improved system effi ciency, increased customer satisfaction, and new opportunities.
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