Energy and stress analysis of a hybrid photovoltaic thermal module

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) solar panel systems are widely used for meeting domestic electricity requirements because of their simple and cost-effective operation. It is well known that the electrical efficiency of PV panels is abruptly disturbed by cell temperature which depends upon several factors, including ambient temperature. In this study, the increased electrical efficiency of a PV module has been demonstrated by integrating a water storage tank at the backside of the PV module turning the simple PV module into hybrid Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) module. The water tank acts as the reservoir and provides water flow at the backside of the PV module and the temperature difference between water and cell causes the heat exchange between the back surface of the PV panel and water, resulting in the lowering of the PV module cell temperature. This hybrid design has resulted in a 19% increment in the electrical efficiency of the PV panel. The system is designed to store hot water at 40 °C. In addition, a PVT thermal efficiency of 36.5% is also achieved which can be used to meet hot water domestic applications. The structural analysis of the system design through ANSYS® is also carried out to determine the effects of water pressure on the tank and it has been found that the design is safe and secure.

Keywords

• Solar energy
• Hybrid PVT Water collector
• Electrical efficiency
• Thermal efficiency
• Structural analysis