Energy performance analysis of a PV/T system coupled with domestic hot water system

Abstract

In this paper, a standalone photovoltaics-thermal solar panel is modelled using the TRNSYS simulation engine. Based on this, it was explored how such a system can be comprised of thermal and electrical storage components to provide electricity and hot water for a dwelling in a warm location in Europe. Furthermore, it was investigated how, by cooling the temperature of the solar cells, the electrical power output and efficiency of the panel was improved. The performance of the system was also studied, and the amount that the solar panel was able to convert the solar energy into electricity was investigated. Through this, we discovered that when the temperature of the panel was reduced, on average, by 20%, the electrical power output increased by nearly 12%. Moreover, it was demonstrated that the modelled system can provide hot water under different solar radiation conditions and during all seasons of the year.