The current state of our environment calls for an energy revolution.
To combat the threats of global warming and growing pollution due to fossil
fuels, the United States must shift away from depleting non- renewable energy
sources towards a more stable alternative. The most viable alternative at
this time is solar energy. This paper observes the steps needed for a speedy
transition towards this clean and renewable energy source. The first section
of this thesis outlines the possible governmental and social incentives needed
to power this revolution. While the second portion addresses the growing
efficiency of solar hot water heating technologies. Through collaboration with
the ecoMOD project at the University of Virginia, which elicits the design,
build, and evaluation of sustainable affordable housing in the Charlottesville
area, this thesis analyzes the in-residential efficiencies of two competing
solar water-heating designs - the flat-plate and evacuated tube array. Their
efficiencies have been tested through laboratory research under ideal
conditions, however this study analyzes the two as they function under real-
life conditions.

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