A Simulation Model for Predicting the Transient Performance of a Hybrid Pv/t Forced-circulation Solar Water-heating System

A transient simulation model for a hybrid PV/T forced-circulation solar water-heating system is presented, along with algorithms for making quantitative predictions regarding the performance of the system. The model consists of a set of mathematical equations governing the main components in the system; namely, transparent cover, solar cell, absorber plate, operating fluid, storage tank, and controller. The model is developed based on the analysis of the balance of energy, which includes photoelectric conversion, thermal conduction, convection, and radiation. It predicts the dynamic variations of several system performance parameters such as electrical power output, amount of heat gained, and various types of efficiencies of the PV/T system. In this research, the developed model was used to investigate the effects of various physical and operational parameters on the system performance, i.e., water mass flow rate, size of water storage tank and overall thermal conductivity of adhesive used for binding solar cells to the absorber plate. These results are useful for designing the most effective PV/T system to meet the load requirement at any operating site location.