Analysis of Solar Photovoltaic - Thermal System Using Simulation and Experimental Approach

Abstract

One potential solution for overcoming the use of fossil fuels involves renewable sources like solar energy. The most efficient way of extracting the solar energy is through solar PV system which tends to decline as the temperature of cell rises. A promising approach to enhance both the electrical performance of PV and the acquisition of beneficial heat energy is through the implementation of photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) systems. This technology aims to increase overall system efficiency. This research undertook the development and examination of a PVT water system employing a serpentine-type tube configuration. To analyse outlet and cell temperatures, ANSYS software was utilized. The investigation encompassed a range of mass flow rates, spanning from 0.001 kg/sec to 0.005 kg/sec, and three heat flux rates (600, 800, and 1000 W/m2). The study also encompassed real-world testing under Nepal's weather conditions, following the parameters set in the simulation. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) results unveiled peak thermal and electrical efficiencies of the system at 59.3% and 11.6%, respectively. Experimental testing yielded slightly lower figures, with thermal and electrical efficiencies measuring 53.5% and 10.4%, correspondingly. Notably, the PV system's electrical efficiency was gauged at 9.6%, while the PVT system reached 10.4%, underscoring the PVT system's enhanced efficiency due to its cooling impact and lower cell temperatures compared to standalone PV systems. The study highlighted that thermal efficiency exhibited a direct correlation with mass flow rate, whereas cell temperature exhibited an inverse relationship with increasing mass