Energy Simulation and Parametric Analysis of Water Cooled Photovoltaic/Thermal System

In this paper computerized simulation of water-cooled photovoltaic/thermal system has been investigated. The configuration of the selected system was a plate and spiral tube type. Energy simulation was done through code development in MATLAB software. The proposed model has been validated with practical data. Thereafter, overall performance of the system has been evaluated. Afterwards, parametric analysis was done in order to compare the effect of the variation of operational parameters on thermal and electrical energy efficiencies. To cover this aim, variation of overall efficiency and pressure drop have been investigated versus variation of water flow rate and the distance between tubes as well as the diameter of tubes. According to the results of simulation and analytical studies, the expected output can be specified logically with evaluation of operational and performance parameters. This procedure is a key step which should be considered for the optimal design of the system in different weather conditions considering energy efficiency improvements. According to the results of this research, for the simulated photovoltaic/thermal system following values shows the optimum amounts: water flow rate of 0.016 kg/s, the outer diameter of the water side pipe 1 cm and the distance between pipes in a range of 7 to 11 cm.