Performance and Energy Assessment of a PV/T Air Collector in Tropical Climates

¹ Mechatronics Engineering Technology Department, University Kuala Lumpur-Malaysia France Institute, Selangor, Malaysia
² Foundation, Pre-University & General Studies Department, German-Malaysian Institute, Selangor, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

A Photovoltaic/Thermal (PV/T) collector system utilizes solar energy by generating both electricity and thermal energy. However, elevated PV module temperature typically reduces electrical efficiency by approximately 0.3-0.5% per °C. To enhance the system performance, ambient air was used as the cooling medium at airflow rates of 1.2, 2.2, and 4.5 m/s. Results showed that 1.2 m/s produced the highest thermal efficiency of 64% with an outlet air temperature of 45.8°C. 2.2 m/s provided the balance of thermal and electrical efficiency of 62% and 11.5% with stable convective cooling, while 4.5 m/s yielded lower gains due to excessive cooling. The system attained a maximum heat gain of 411 kJ and an annual energy yield of 410 MJ m⁻² yr⁻², offsetting 1.4 kg CO₂ m⁻² yr⁻² with a payback period of 8–10 years. This confirms the PV/T air collector as an efficient and low-cost solution for low-grade heat recovery in solar drying and space heating applications under a hot and humid climate.