Photovoltaic thermal hybrid solar collectors, sometimes known as hybrid PV/T systems or PVT, are systems that convert solar radiation into thermal and electrical energy. These systems combine a solar cell, which converts sunlight into electricity, with a solar thermal collector, which captures the remaining energy and removes waste heat from the PV module. The capture of both electricity and heat allow these devices to have higher energy and thus be more overall energy efficient than solar photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal alone. Photovoltaic cells suffer from a drop in efficiency with the rise in Concept temperature due to increased resistance. Furthermore, solar PV is inefficient and some energy is ‘lost’ to the surrounding environment. What solar PV needs is a partner able to complement its strengths and compensate its deficiencies. Such systems(PV/T) can be engineered to carry heat away from the PV cells thereby cooling the cells and thus improving their efficiency by lowering resistance. By placing a solar thermal collector behind a solar photovoltaic (PV) array, the PV cells can be cooled. Function of Solar Wall, Lewis 2008 Benefits
Solar Wall Photo-voltaic/Thermal – Hybrid
Heating and Electricity Solar Wall PV/T (photovoltaic + solar thermal) is a hybrid system which provides up to 4 times the total energy from the same surface area. The secondary benefit is to reduce the operating temperature of the PV modules and thereby improve electrical performance. The patented system provides both PV generated electricity and warm air for building ventilation or process heating. Benefits As well, the Solar Wall component becomes the PV racking system, which further reduces PV system costs. Solar Duct PV/T is a modular rooftop application of the PV/thermal technology that also acts as a PV racking system. PV modules are mounted on top of the Solar Duct units, and the heat is drawn off the back of the PV modules and then ducted to the nearest rooftop air handler. The ‘excess heat’ is then channeled into the building’s HVAC system where it is used to offset the heating load. Benefits The removal of the heat from the back of the PV modules also enhances the electrical operating efficiency of the PV by up to 10%. Since the Solar Wall air heating panels serve as the racking system needed to mount the PV modules that also contribute to the costeffectiveness of the cogeneration system. The modular units are easy to install and are angled at an ideal orientation for maximum solar gain References SR Research Paper/ Website/ Book Author Year NO 1 Integrated Study of Measures & Techniques in Namesh Killemsetty 1 2014 Green Building Construction Shridhar A. Behare 2