ABSTRACT
“Passive” systems tend to be hybrid systems in most Swedish full-scale projects. The passive component is usually highly-integrated with other systems. Presently, passive R&D activities are concentrated on simulation program development, glass technologies, transparent insulation, atria, and daylighting.
Since the beginning of the eighties, the Swedish solar research program has focused on the development of larger solar systems, e.g. larger collector arrays with or without seasonal storage, connected to a local or district heating network. Installation cost have been reduced conciderably in large systems and this is still the main issue in the Swedish R&D program.
Solar heating systems for domestic hot water production and space heating are technically feasible in both single family houses and apartment buildings. Among other things, a more favorable heat load, make apartment building more attractive for solar heating.
More then 6 000m2 of collectors are sold yearly in Sweden. Most of the systems are home made, however, this is done in an organized way. Testing standards exists for collectors and a certification will guarantee only high quality collectors on the market. In order to receive governmental support for installation of solar system (25%), collectors must be certified according to the Swedish P–certification.
The Swedish funding for research on photovoltaics has, compared to many countries, been on a rather low level. Despite the situation, very promising results have been achieved for thin-film cell development during last year.
