Digital Mapping of Techno-Economic Performance of a Water-Based Solar Photovoltaic/Thermal (PVT) System for Buildings over Large Geographical Cities

Abstract

Solar photovoltaic thermal (PVT) is an emerging technology capable of producing electrical and thermal energy using a single collector. However, to achieve larger market penetration of this technology, it is imperative to have an understanding of the energetic performance for different climatic conditions and the economic performance under various financial scenarios. This paper thus presents a techno-economic evaluation of a typical water-based PVT system for a single-family house to generate electricity and domestic hot water applications in 85 locations worldwide. The simulations are performed using a validated tool with one-hour time step for output. The thermal performance of the collector is evaluated using energy utilization ratio and exergy efficiency as key performance indicators, which are further visualized by the digital mapping approach. The economic performance is assessed using net present value and payback period under two financial scenarios: (1) total system cost as a capital investment in the first year; (2) only 25% of total system cost is a capital investment and the remaining 75% investment is considered for a financing period with a certain interest rate. The results show that such a PVT system has better energy and exergy performance for the locations with a low annual ambient temperature and vice versa. Furthermore, it is seen that the system boundaries, such as load profile, hot water storage volume, etc., can have a significant effect on the annual energy production of the system. Economic analysis indicates that the average net present values per unit collector area are 1800 and 2200 EUR, respectively, among the 85 cities for financial model 1 and financial model 2. Nevertheless, from the payback period point of view, financial model 1 is recommended for locations with high interest rate. The study is helpful to set an understanding of general factors influencing the techno-economic performance dynamics of PVT systems for various locations.

A data-driven framework for building energy benchmarking and renovation decision-making support in Sweden

“…In the context of the rapid increase in global energy demand and recognition of climate change prominence, the need for energy-efficient retrofitting measures (EEMs) to reduce energy use in individual buildings and building stock has become imperative [1]- [3]. Considering the increasing energy prices in Europe in recent months, this need for energy efficiency has never been as important as it is now.…”

“…𝒌𝑾𝒉 𝒕𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 = 𝑰𝒏𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒌𝑾𝒉 𝒆𝒍 + 𝑰𝒏𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒌𝑾𝒉 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓(3) User input in bill amount (SEK) and electricity prices. Although the recommended method is to input the energy use in kWh, this benchmark model provides an extra option to input their gross electricity monthly bill amount (Swedish Krona SEK) of anyone latest month in each season.…”

Analysis of Solar Energy Utilization Effect of Air-Based Photovoltaic/Thermal System

“…Fayaz et al reviewed the use of a phase change material (PCM) in PVT systems and concluded that the cooling effect increased, owing to the application of the PCM; consequently, the power generation efficiency increased [26]. Reddy Penaka et al reviewed measures to evaluate the economic feasibility of applying PVT based on country-specific climatic conditions, energy consumption and energy cost [27].…”