Study of a hybrid BIPV/T solar wall system

Abstract In order to satisfy seasonal energy demand and to decrease energy consumption of the building during the whole year, this paper presents a hybrid BIPV/T solar wall system. In winter, BIPV/Air mode is adopted to provide space heating and generate electricity for the building. During rest of the year, system is conducted in BIPV/Water mode to create hot water and electricity simultaneously. Firstly, the experiments are conducted under each mode respectively. Secondly, mathematical models are established and verified by the experimental results. Thirdly, parameter analyses are introduced to evaluate performance of the system under different situations. The main results are: (1) Daily experimental electrical output and efficiency are 0.12 kWh & 7.6% in summer and 0.65 kWh & 12.5% in winter. (2) Based on experimental results, water tank temperature is over 40 °C in summer, and the average temperature of the experimental room is 18.6 °Cin winter. (3) The optimal water flow velocity in summer is proved to be 0.04 L/s by parameter study. (4) The system is able to achieve passive space cooling in summer. (5) Based on simulation analysis, the system can provide space heating efficiently in winter.