Solar water heater is a device that can be used to capture sunlight in order to heat the water in your pipes to be used for baths, showers, etc. Solar water heater or SWH comprises a solar panel, inverter system, and a water storage tank. The sunlight that falls on the solar panels is used to heat the water inside the insulated storage tank either through a pump or directly through the thermosyphon principle. In the thermosyphon principle, fluid circulation is based on natural convention, where warm water rises and is replaced by cold water. Some of the advantages of SWHs over CWHs are: cost-effectiveness and reduced dependence on other fossil fuels. SWHs are generally installed on the roof of a building where the intensity of sunlight is maximum throughout the day.
The market for solar water heaters in India is expected to reach INR 1369 crore till 2021. Karnataka and Bangalore are having maximum share in India. In India the SWH market has been through many ups and downs. The market changes drastically in some year, remains stable for a while and then again decreases as shown in the below graph. In solar water heaters the residential sector is driving the market.
Residential sector has penetrated almost 80% in the market. Industries and other commercial institutes are also picking up solar water heater as a better option. Electric water heaters are still dominating the market, but solar water heater is also growing rapidly to make a considerate share in the water heater market.
Global Solar Water Heater Market is projected to exceed USD 4 billion by 2024, growing demand for environment friendly, cost effective and reliable systems for water heating purposes across commercial, industrial, and residential sector will augment the solar water heater market. Ability to reduce electricity bill by 50% to 80% will encourage the product penetration over the forecast timeline.