We've had a Solartwin panel for years and been very happy. Thought about buying another one, but realised we'd need a bigger HW tank, so did nothing. HW tank now needs replacing, but Solartwin have just 'ceased trading'. Does anyone have any ideas about whether it is going to be resurrected, or whether equipment will be sold off, or - really - any information at all?
Thanks
Tony

I looked at the Solartwin site after reading Ingleside's post. Didn't see any reference to liquidation.

Edit: Oops!! Didn't scroll down the page.

Yes, I've written to Judith Pryor, but only on Friday 17th. I note that the web-site simply says 'ceased trading', and Judith Pryor is not identified as either liquidator or administrator, which is why I asked on here. It isn't clear what will happen. Both of those phone numbers get through to an answer phone inviting you to leave a message and they will call back. Sounds like the message that would have been on when the office was closed.

Crusoe, I think he wants another panel from Solartwin, not the replacement tank.

May or may not be of interest but here's a long thread on the Green Living Forum about home made panels like those from Solartwin:

http://www.thegreenlivingforum.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=6709

Crusoe,

I think the OP's point was that he was thinking of *adding* a 2nd panel for increased SWH capacity (which wouuld requre a larger cylinder), hence he did not do anything further abut it. Now (for other reasons, and from other suppliers) he needs a new cylinder, so he was considering a larger one, but now he can't get a 2nd panel....

Yes, new tank needed, so larger tank chosen to add more SHW capacity. I've received this from Judith Pryer
"It is not anticipated that we will be selling any of the assets of the Company piecemeal. What assets there are will be sold as a package through our appointed Agents who are Messrs Robson Kay, Altrincham – contact Jonathan Kay 0161-99 88 111 ."

So, it looks as if a resurrection is on the cards - I'll sort out my larger tank with a local plumber first, and then source a new panel, either from Solartwin Mark II, or elsewhere. I've got too old to build my own, now!

Thanks for everyone's help.

Tony

Thanks for clarification guys, we obviously read it different ways to get to the same end result.

Ed: It definitely reads like 'home made panels like those from Solartwin' to me Anyway, we both know what we both mean, and that's the main thing...just the English language in the way!

it'll have been the 3 year delay (and counting) in RHI, plus the sudden axing of the LCBP grants scheme that really did for them, as their core product was a retro fit water heating product.

tbf It seemed like a decent concept. No doubt some chinese company will buy the IP and flog it back to the UK for a lower price than solartwin could manage.

I had a bit of an internet run in with Barry, and he did seem to have a knack of pissing people off, but it's still a shame to see them go, as I got the feeling his heart was generally in the right place.

Haven't solartwin assets been acquired by Discrete Heat?

Hello all, It was a combination of things that did for Solartwin, the main one (in my opinion) being the price compared to efficiency. I've installed Solartwin for years and the system itself is fine. The design has indeed been bought by a company called Discrete heat who manufacture Therma skirt (the skirting board radiator system). They have been talking with a few installers to get an idea on how to market it and it should be available shortly. The good news is they have done away with the complicated installation system that Solartwin used and will be using independent MCS installers from now on. It will also be significantly cheaper which places it back in the market where it should be. Expect a full install to come in sub £2500. If anyone wants any more info drop me a line.