Life cycle energy metrics and CO2 credit analysis of a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal greenhouse dryer

Abstract

In this paper, life cycle energy metrics, such as energy payback time (EPBT), energy production factor (EPF) and life cycle conversion efficiency (LCCE), and mitigation of CO2 emissions for a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) greenhouse dryer have been analyzed. The hybrid PV/T greenhouse (roof type even span) dryer, designed and constructed at Solar Energy Park, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi (28°35′-N, 77°12′E, 216 m above MSL), India, has a 2.50 m × 2.60 m floor area, 1.80 m central height and 1.05 m side walls height from ground and a 30° roof slope. The EPBT of the hybrid PV/T greenhouse dryer has been analyzed on an energy basis. The net CO2 mitigations and carbon credit earned by using a hybrid PV/T greenhouse dryer have also been highlighted.