Novel Designs of Photovoltaic Thermal (PV/T) Systems

Abstract

Advanced concepts of hybrid photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) collectors are proposed to improve electrical efficiency and utilize the waste heat as thermal energy. The use of air, water, and combinations of the two are considered traditional techniques. The complexity is raised when using advanced state-of-the-art systems to improve the overall efficiency of PV/T such as employing nanofluids, nano-Phase Change Material (PCM), heat pump and jet impingement. This paper presents a review of novel designs which are proposed in the literature to enhance the performance of PV/T collectors and from it the evaluation criteria is derived. The comparison between different designs could be based on having same pumping power, size, or designs; depending on the element intended for the comparison. The designs also vary according to the bias assigned; whether to improve electrical performance more, or thermal performance. The common aspects observed in the literature are investigations of mass flow rate, impact of solar irradiance, and design parameters such as pipe material, configuration and diameters.