Photovoltaic-thermal (PV/t) panel to minimize electrical and air conditioning energy consumption of a typical office in Beirut

ABSTRACT

A combined photovoltaic–thermal (PV/t) panel is proposed to produce simultaneously electricity and heat from one integrated unit. The unit utilizes effectively the solar energy through achieving higher PV electrical efficiency and using the thermal energy for heating applications. To predict the performance of the PV/t at a given environmental conditions, a transient mathematical model was developed. The model was integrated in a heating application for a typical office space in the city of Beirut to provide the office needs for electricity, heating during winter season, and dehumidification and evaporative cooling during the summer season. To minimize the yearly office energy (electrical and heat) needs, the PV/t panel cooling air flow rate and the dehumidification regeneration temperature were determined for opimal unit operation. Thermal energy savings of up to 85% in winter and 71% in summer were achived compared to conventional systems at a payback period of 8 years for the panels.

KEYWORDS:

• Performance of photovoltaic–thermal panel
• PV/t for heating dehumidification and power
• sizing hyrid renewable system

Acknowledgment

The financial support of the Munib Masri Institute for Energy and Natural Resources at the American University of Beirut is highly acknowledged.

Notes

¹ Laboratory National Renewable Energy. HOMER Software. Colorado, USA

² Laboratory National Renewable Energy. HOMER Software. Colorado, USA