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With the widespread deployment of solar photovoltaic (PV) and thermal devices imminent, this research aims to resolve some engineering barriers to the existing solar photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) technologies by incorporating an innovative loop heat pipe (LHP) and a typical heat pump. In addition, a coated aluminium-alloy (Al-alloy) sheet replaces the conventional baseboard for the PV cells to improve heat exportation. As a result, this research has developed a novel solar PV/LHP heat pump system to maximise the electrical output of a PV module and generate an additional amount of heat simultaneously. The overall investigation follows procedures for a critical literature review, optimal concept design, mathematical derivation, the development of simulation models, prototype fabrication, laboratory-controlled and field testing, simulation model validation and socio-economic analysis. The research results are expected to configure feasible solutions for future PV/T technologies and develop a new solar-driven heating system. The core technologies may enable a significant reduction in or even elimination of the carbon footprint in the built environment.
About the author
Dr. Zhang is currently working on the topic of thermodynamic and renewable energy systems at the School of Engineering, University of Hull, UK. He has active research interest in solar energy, green-building design and consultancy, simulation and monitoring of building energy performance, and energy efficient technique within the built environment.
