Why is Solar heating more common than PV?

[JamesH]

I've seen quite a few solar heating systems around, but rarely do I see PV panels on homes. It seems that the difference in prevelance is quite significant. Why is this?

[CuriousGeorge]

It may just be where I live, but up here solar panels on roofs are extremely common. At a guess I'd say a good 10-15% of homes have them. I think they look quite nice as well  :)

[JamesH]

[quote author=CuriousGeorge link=topic=178.msg453#msg453 date=1449002900]
It may just be where I live, but up here solar panels on roofs are extremely common. At a guess I'd say a good 10-15% of homes have them. I think they look quite nice as well  :)
[/quote]

Is your estate relatively new? I'd say in my town 5% at most have them, and that would be a push. However I've seen a disproportionate number on newly built homes.

[LucidEnergy]

Cost is by far the biggest factor. Especially up north, the difference in ROI is massive. Just 2-3 years soemtimes for heating panels, but often 15 years for PV.