Hybrid PV/T water solar collector for net zero energy building and fresh water production: A theoretical approach

• We studied the possibility of obtaining an nZEB and producing fresh water.
• A hybrid PV/T water solar collector is used.
• A solar prototype is studied under the climate of Ouargla city.
• A numerical simulation is carried out for 1 year with the TRNSYS 17 software.
• A program is coupled with TRNSYS for the simulation of the solar still.

The purpose of this work is to study the possibility of obtaining a net zero energy building and producing fresh water via a solar still by using a hybrid PV/T water solar collector. A solar prototype built in the city of Boussaâda is studied under the climate of Ouargla city to show the importance of the use of passive solar architecture. The results highlight the importance of using passive solar techniques to reduce heating energy needs. Energy savings are realized with passive techniques even before the use of active solar systems. It is possible to cover the energy requirements with the use of hybrid PV/T water solar collectors. High solar thermal fractions for domestic hot water are achieved during the year. Solar electricity produced is high and can cover the annual needs of domestic hot water, air conditioning and heating, lighting and household equipment of the prototype. A part of the difference in area between that used to cover the thermal requirements of domestic hot water and the total area of the PV/T collectors is used for supplying a solar still. An increase in the annual production of 2.97 times is obtained compared to passive solar still.