Enhancing solar energy efficiency through comparative analysis of photovoltaic and hybrid photovoltaic-thermal systems

The increasing demand for efficient and sustainable energy solutions has intensified interest in solar technologies, yet conventional photovoltaic (PV) systems often suffer from reduced efficiency under high solar irradiance due to thermal stress. Hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) systems offer a viable alternative by simultaneously harnessing electrical and thermal energy, but comprehensive real-world performance comparisons are limited. This study aims to experimentally compare PV and PVT systems under identical climatic conditions to evaluate total energy output, thermal stability, and operational efficiency. A dedicated experimental setup incorporating Perovskite modules, pyranometers, thermometers, and a gravity-fed cooling system was used to measure performance across 6 h daily. The PVT system reached a peak thermal efficiency of 43.37 %, with a maximum thermal power output of 315.6 W and a total thermal energy yield of 1415.7 Wh. Electrical efficiency for the PVT system remained above 8.6 % during midday, whereas the standalone PV system recorded a minimum efficiency of 6.85 % under the same conditions. The Random Forest model reached a classification accuracy of 97 % in predicting efficiency categories using irradiance and temperature data. The study demonstrated a 291.6 % increase in thermal energy output compared to electrical output in PVT systems. These results show the performance and stability advantages of PVT systems, especially in hot environments. The integration of data-driven predictive tools and advanced insulation materials is recommended for future optimization, making PVT systems a compelling solution for next-generation solar infrastructure.