Increasing the Solar Share for Electrical and Thermal Energy Production in the Built Environment

Abstract

The chapter describes photovoltaic thermal (PVT) systems, starting with their functionalities, types, advantages, disadvantages and the general functional scheme, outlining the electrical and thermal components and circuits. These systems represent good candidates when a higher solar fraction is targeted in covering the electrical and thermal energy demand by solar energy conversion in the built environment. The most important component in a PVT system, the PVT module, is detailed in terms of types and components; air-cooled and liquid-cooled PVT modules are comparatively described. Specific details on the integration of the PVT modules in the built environment are outlined through examples described in literature, and based on a case study (implemented in the Renewable Energy Systems and Recycling Research Centre of the Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania) for which experimental data related to their electrical and thermal output are discussed. Economic and financial aspects of building integrated PVT systems are discussed.