Energies, Vol. 19, Pages 450: Investigation of the Influence Mechanism and Analysis of Engineering Application of the Solar PVT Heat Pump Cogeneration System

Energies, Vol. 19, Pages 450: Investigation of the Influence Mechanism and Analysis of Engineering Application of the Solar PVT Heat Pump Cogeneration System

Energies doi: 10.3390/en19020450

Authors:
Yujia Wu
Zihua Li
Yixian Zhang
Gang Chen
Gang Zhang
Xiaolan Wang
Xuanyue Zhang
Zhiyan Li

Amidst the ongoing global energy crisis, environmental deterioration, and the exacerbation of climate change, the development of renewable energy, particularly solar energy, has become a central topic in the global energy transition. This study investigates a solar photovoltaic thermal (PVT) heat pump system that utilizes an expanded honeycomb-channel PVT module to enhance the comprehensive utilization efficiency of solar energy. A simulation platform for the solar PVT heat pump system was established using Aspen Plus software (V12), and the system’s performance impact mechanisms and engineering applications were researched. The results indicate that solar irradiance and the circulating water temperature within the PVT module are the primary factors affecting system performance: for every 100 W/m2 increase in solar irradiance, the coefficient of performance for heating (COPh) increases by 13.7%, the thermoelectric comprehensive performance coefficient (COPco) increases by 14.9%, and the electrical efficiency of the PVT array decreases by 0.05%; for every 1 °C increase in circulating water temperature, the COPh and COPco increase by 11.8% and 12.3%, respectively, and the electrical efficiency of the PVT array decreases by 0.03%. In practical application, the system achieves an annual heating capacity of 24,000 GJ and electricity generation of 1.1 million kWh, with average annual COPh and COPco values of 5.30 and 7.60, respectively. The Life Cycle Cost (LCC) is 13.2% lower than that of the air-source heat pump system, the dynamic investment payback period is 4–6 years, and the annual carbon emissions are reduced by 94.6%, demonstrating significant economic and environmental benefits. This research provides an effective solution for the efficient and comprehensive utilization of solar energy, utilizing the low-global-warming-potential refrigerant R290, and is particularly suitable for combined heat and power applications in regions with high solar irradiance.