First lab-scale experimental results from a hybrid solar water purification and photovoltaic system

► Autonomous solar photocatalytic-photovoltaic systems for water purification are feasible. ► Commercial TiO2 nanoparticles were used as photocatalyst and an organic dye as pollutant. ► PV output improves when the dye degrades, as the optical transmission to the cell increases. ► When dye decolourisation is complete, the increase in PV output is 32-37% (initial dye 2-10 mg/L).