Solar energy is one of the most promising renewable energy sources.
Building sector is one of the most suitable candidates for utilizing this energy source
because of its abundance. More specifically, solar energy is able to be used for
electricity production, as well as for covering the heating and the cooling loads of the
buildings. In this chapter, new and innovative ideas about the adoption of solar energy
systems in buildings are presented. Simple and low cost solar collectors which can
produce heating in low and medium temperatures levels are analyzed. Emphasis is
given in the utilization of Phase Change Materials, as well as in the utilization of solar
assisted heat pumps. Moreover, innovative passive heating systems, as Trombe wall are
presented with detail.
Keywords: Building Thermal Behaviour, Heat Pumps, PCM, Solar Energy.
