In pictures we have shown the possible application of STAF panels with the heat pump technology. The results show that an application of STAF panels is very interesting from thermodynamic, ecologic was well as economic perspective.

• A various number of CFD simulations were performed in order to analyse the thermal behaviour and determine the thermal output of STAF panels. In the simulations, a water glycol mixture was heated inside a STAF panel with the dimensions of 3.5 x 1.0 x 0.15 m up to 48.2 °C. The maximal thermal output was approximately 3.9 kW. The exterior temperature as well as the wind has a very strong impact on the thermal behaviour and the output. When the ambient temperature is higher than the average surface temperature of the exterior absorber plate, the fluid is additionally heated. Unfortunately, the absorber´s heat loss increases as the ambient temperature decreases. The heat loss at low ambient temperatures can be reduced by installing a glass cover for the absorber.

• In the course of the project “ABS-Network SIAT 125” [1], further thermal and structural analysis of the STAF panel will be performed in order to optimize the whole construction and improve the thermal output. Additionally, outdoor tests will be performed at Graz, University of Technology to compare the thermal behaviour of the most promising STAF panel absorber geometries under real climate conditions.