Solar Photovoltaic Thermal Collector as a Cogeneration Energy System: Conception and Recent Development in the Mediterranean Region

The increase in population is causing a major problem for the energy production sector worldwide. Moreover, a clean source of energy is required to have low greenhouse gases emissions. One of the most alternative available clean sources of energy is the solar energy which is renewable and sustainable. In this chapter, a study on solar photovoltaic thermal (PVT) collector is conducted. Energy as well as exergy analysis is presented thoroughly. Additionally, a review about Mediterranean countries’ energy consumption and production is presented in this chapter. Finally, a case study showing a detailed thermal-electrical model of different configurations of hybrid air collectors and photovoltaic (PV) module under Algiers climatic conditions is considered.