Improvement of hybrid photovoltaic/thermal solar energy systems.

Abstract

Hybrid photovoltaic thermal (PV/T or PVT) solar system combines a simultaneous conversion of the absorbed solar radiation into electricity and heat. In this paper the design of an experimental PVT dual system with modifications in the air channel using Sinusoidal, Triangular and Rectangular corrugated ribs are presented. All collectors are of same capacity, projected area, water heat extraction method and average depth. Natural convection is applied instead of forced convection to increase the system net electrical output and thereby the overall system efficiency. This system is simple and suitable for building integration, providing hot water or air depending on the season and the thermal needs of the building. Significant results have been obtained with this stated modification comparing with the previous models. Performance Study was carried out in the months of July to August , 2013 at IUT campus. We performed our study on a bright sunny morning with a square setup. We found that on an intense sunny day the maximum temperature for water was 42°C and the average efficiency was 48%.