Energy and Exergy Analyses of a Novel Double-Axis Tracking Low-Concentrating Photovoltaic/Thermal Module by Numerical Simulation

As a form of solar energy utilization, photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) modules generate heat and electricity at the same time. Relative to individual photovoltaic or photothermal, it has a higher efficiency. In this paper, a simulation process coupling optical, electrical and thermal models for a novel double-axis tracking low-concentrating photovoltaic/thermal module is established. The optical characteristics of the module are simulated by Monte Carlo method. The electrical and thermal characteristics are numerically simulated using the finite volume method. The simulated values of outlet water temperature, output current and output power are fit well with experimental values, which verifies the reliability of the simulation process. Besides, the effects of gravity vector direction, water inlet velocity, solar irradiation, water inlet temperature, ambient temperature and wind speed on the energy and exergy performances of the module are studied. Relevant results can provide an effective basis for the proposal of module’s operation strategies.