A combined optical, thermal and electrical performance model of a Building Integrated Photovoltaic/Thermal Concentrator (BIPVTC)

Abstract

The electrical output of concentrating photovoltaic devices is significantly affected by the temperature of the photovoltaic cells. The ability to actively cool photovoltaic cells under concentrated radiation allows their electrical efficiency to be maintained particularly during periods of high solar radiation when concentration offers the maximum benefit. In this study, the design of a novel photovoltaic/thermal solar concentrator for building integration (BIPVTC) is discussed. The optical, thermal and electrical performance of the collector was theoretically modelled and validated with experimental data. The results show that BIPVTC offers improved electrical yields from both concentrating radiation onto the photovoltaic cells and also by actively cooling them.