A novel hybrid solar water heater system integrated with thermoelectric generators: Experimental and numerical analysis

Abstract

This paper presents a full-scale experimental performance evaluation of a new design of a solar water heating system installed in the football pitches of the University of Tunis El Manar. Thermoelectric generators were incorporated into the heating system to utilize the wasted heat and use the temperature differences in water to generate electricity. To optimize system parameters, evaluate thermal efficiency, and predict long-term system performance for winter and summer operating weather conditions, a numerical model using the finite volume method and TRNSYS software was developed. For model validation, the simulation results are compared to the experimental data. The economic study was also presented, as well as the system's energy gain and lifetime energy savings. The thermal efficiency of the system was found to be 50 and 95 percent in January and July, respectively. Furthermore, the hybrid model reduced electrical consumption by 80%, and in areas with higher environmental temperatures, the reduction in the electrical bill could be up to 90%. The new hybrid solar system's energy savings over its lifetime are estimated to be $14400.