Optimal selection of solar water heating systems based on comparative techno-econumic feasibility study

Solar energy is an energy source with a greater potential and a higher probability of widespread use compared to other renewable energy sources. For this reason, it is important to develop the technologies of solar energy systems and increase their usage areas. Solar energy is a renewable energy source that is widely used to provide hot water in homes and to utilise in industrial processes. The use of solar energy in domestic hot water and industrial steam production provides both economic and environmental benefits. In this study, the performance analysis of 8 different flat plate and vacuum tube collectors was carried out using the F-Chart Method. In the study, the analysis was carried out for a certain hot water demand according to the meteorological conditions of Aydın, Samsun, Afyonkarahisar, Niğde, Erzurum and Sivas provinces. An economic analysis was carried out for a sample province (Niğde) and a sample collector, and the payback period was calculated. In addition, the importance of solar water heating systems for reducing air pollution is emphasised in the study.