There are two schools of thought about solar water heaters.  First is they usually represent 30% of you total energy bill.  So by using a Solar Water heater you are able to reduce your electricity consumption load and need to produce less power.  When we look at system development this falls under energy conservation because it reduces your electricity consumption load.  The second school of thought is the room that it takes up to have a solar water heater you can usually put in a larger photovoltaic solar system and produce more power that will power your water heater and your entire home.  As a solar consultant we will asses your ability to have both or go with a larger sized system.  We will make the recommendations and then let you make the decision.