Analysis of a Concentrating Photovoltaic/Thermal Solar System

Abstract

Uses of solar energy both on heat energy and electricity at the same time by concentrating sunlight and tracking the maximum output power of solar cells is an efficient way, which will increase the utility of solar energy and reduce the cost. A reflective concentrator is adopted in the system to increase solar intensity on solar cells while they are cooled underneath by water. In such a way, much less solar cell area is needed to produce the same amount of electricity and hence the cell cost is greatly reduced. And hot water could be supplied at the same time. A mathematical model for a photovoltaic/thermal solar system is set up. The performance of the system is simulated. Some influences are discussed, such as the concentration ratio, flow rate of the cooling water, thermal conductivity, thickness of solar cells, tracking of maximum output power of solar cells, etc. on the thermal efficiency, electrical efficiency and temperature of solar cells. A working cycle is designed and simulated.