Naked Energy has released its VirtuMAX, a new ground-mount solar thermal technology that uses up to 85 per cent of land area, compared to 40 per cent for conventional solar technologies.

Solar thermal is different from conventional solar PV panels in that it generates renewable heat rather than electricity. Naked Energy’s Virtu collectors have the highest energy density across solar thermal and solar PV panels and can provide up to ten times more carbon savings than traditional PV panels.

The system uses ground-mounted evacuated tubes with integrated reflectors specifically designed for district heating networks and industrial installations. The tubular design eliminates the need for spacing between units, which is required for traditional solar, as its flat design creates the problem of self-shading. This means that only 40 per cent of the ground area for traditional solar technologies is used to generate energy, whereas VirtuMAX uses 85 percent of the ground area.

Additionally, its low profile delivers improved structural integrity, greater service accessibility and reduced visual impact.

Christophe Williams, CEO of Naked Energy, said: “Heat remains one of the hardest areas to decarbonise across Europe, particularly for industrial businesses. District heating networks are becoming increasingly popular as well, but it's vital that they don't rely entirely on electrification, as the grid upgrades required will be extortionate for taxpayers.”

Naked Energy is a British design and engineering business, backed by £17m from E.ON Energy Infrastructure Solutions and Barclays and has installed Virtu projects in more than 20 countries, including the largest UK solar thermal project on the roof of the British Library.

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