Thermal performance optimization of a novel integrated photovoltaic thermal collector system

Yuling Xiao, Fan Fei, Junlong Zou, Lei Tian, Qian Liang, Qingsong Ma, Hiroatsu Fukuda and Weijun Gao

Renewable Energy, 2025, vol. 238, issue C

Abstract: The construction industry is actively seeking energy-efficient solutions to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Building-integrated photovoltaic thermal (PV-T) systems, combining electricity generation with solar heat utilization, have emerged as a promising technology. However, conventional PV-T systems often face limitations in achieving optimal PV panel angles for maximum solar gain while maintaining architectural aesthetics, especially when integrated into building facades. This study investigates the thermal performance of a novel photovoltaic thermal collector (PV-TC) system specifically designed to address these challenges. This system, intended for installation on south-facing building facades, allows for flexible PV panel angling design to optimize solar energy capture without compromising the building's aesthetic appeal. We employ a simulation-based optimization approach using EnergyPlus, Radiance, and a genetic algorithm to determine the optimal design parameters for minimizing annual energy use intensity (EUI) in Nanjing, China's climate. Our results demonstrate that a fan rate of 288 m³/h, a winter fan setpoint of 21 °C, a summer fan setpoint of 25 °C, and a PV panel angle of 41° achieve the lowest EUI of 92.33 kWh/m2. This optimized configuration effectively balances electricity generation with solar heat utilization, minimizing reliance on conventional HVAC systems. We further analyzed individual parameter influences, demonstrating that increasing fan rate consistently improves heat transfer efficiency, while optimal PV angle and fan setpoint temperature are crucial for maximizing solar heat utilization and nighttime cooling, respectively. By comparison it was found that the installation of the PV-TC system reduces the annual EUI by 22.7 %. These findings provide valuable insights for designing and operating high-performance PV-TC systems that address both energy efficiency and architectural integration concerns in buildings.

Keywords: Integrated photovoltaic thermal collector; Energy use intensity; EnergyPlus simulation; Genetic algorithm optimization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:renene:v:238:y:2025:i:c:s0960148124020469

DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2024.121978

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