Abstract
The demand for on-site production of energy is showing a rapid increase as the trend of decentralisation and energy self-reliance gains momentum. This paper studies and compares three of the main solar energy technologies: photovoltaic, solar thermal panels and hybrid photovoltaic thermal panels. A prototype experimental installation consisting of the aforementioned technologies was set up on the campus of University Politehnica Bucharest. Data were collected over several months, then the instantaneous power production and overall system performance was computed. The system was analysed in four types of weather patterns, and its suitability was assessed in each case. The results show that the performance of PVT panels is closely connected to the dissipation of the thermal energy collected in the thermal storage tank. In addition, PVT collectors can outperform the PV panels in accordance to the thermal energy demand of the end user when used in an installation with suitable dimensions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
