Assessment of the Energy Performances of a Hybrid Photovoltaic/Thermal (PV/T) System Integrated to a Building in Different Climatic Zones

This work concerns the modeling and simulation of the energy yields (thermal and electrical) from a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PVT) solar collector integrated into the building. The simulations are performed under TRNSYS and concern among the objectives the impact of the meteorological conditions on the energy performances of (PVT) systems, taking as selected case studies, the Algerian cities of Oran, Sétif, and Adrar, in addition to London (UK). For the production of hot water, the study shows that the PVT system does not allow to cover all the heating needs for the cities of Sétif and Oran during the heating winter period. The required amount of the electrical backup system is important for Sétif and is almost similar to that of London (UK), while it is moderate for Oran. The highest amount of thermal energy is produced in Adrar; however, the production of electricity is only possible during the winter period because the ambient temperatures are high enough for the other months of the year, creating an overheating of the photovoltaic cells. London, for its part, because of its low solar radiation except for the month of May, always requires significant auxiliary energy to fill energy deficits (electrical and thermal). The study shows as an overall conclusion that it is in the type E1 climatic zone (coastal zone and Mediterranean climate) that the PVT hybrid system is best suited for optimal integration into buildings.