Global prospects, challenges and progress of photovoltaic thermal system

Abstract

Solar photovoltaic-thermal system (PVT) enables the simultaneous conversion of solar radiation into electricity and heat. Various PVT systems have been developed over the last 30 years. The current article provides an extensive overview of PVT systems, an inspection of published research on these systems, and the technical (i.e., energy loss effects, weight-based problems, tracking systems, load distribution) and financial barriers (i.e., high upfront cost, payback period, and life cycle cost) are discussed. This paper mainly focuses on prospects, technical and economic challenges, and suggestions to overcome the challenges of solving energy crises using the PVT system. A comparative analysis has also been discussed based on the significant advantages, challenges, and the scope of the PVT future based on the roadmap. Results show that the glazed double pass PVT would be more beneficial with 50–60% efficiency at lower temperatures. On the other hand, water–air systems can be more efficient than water-only or air-only systems. Moreover, Water-cooled, air-cooled, or any PVT cooling system has lower LCC than other systems. A review of the PVT technologies can provide a base for the next generation of the PVT systems and helps policymakers to frame strategies aiming for clean technology and sustainable development.