Optimizing Photovoltaic-Thermal Systems: A Comprehensive Indoor Experimental Investigation

Photovoltaic Thermal Collector (PV/T) is an innovative solar technology that combines photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal technologies to generate both electricity and heat simultaneously. This study comprehensively investigates the dynamics of a PV/T system by examining the intricate relationships between solar radiation, mass flow rates, outlet water temperatures, and electrical output. The experiment, conducted in a controlled laboratory environment, provided crucial insights into how solar radiation impacts both thermal and electrical performance. Our results indicate a direct correlation between solar radiation and outlet water temperature, highlighting the potential for enhanced thermal energy absorption with increased solar radiation. Additionally, we observed that higher mass flow rates led to lower outlet water temperatures, emphasizing the importance of optimizing water flow rates for efficient heat transfer. Regarding electrical output, higher solar radiation levels were linked to increased voltage, and augmenting mass flow rates further amplified the output voltage. By comparing experimental findings with theoretical results, we validated our data, acknowledging minor disparities that underscore the importance of practical experimentation to refine theoretical models.