Characterization of a photovoltaic-thermal module for Fresnel linear concentrator

An advanced solar unit is designed to match the needs of building integration and concentrating photovoltaic/thermal generation. The unit proposed accurately combines three elements: a domed linear Fresnel lens as primary concentrator, a compound parabolic reflector as secondary concentrator and a photovoltaic-thermal module. In this work the photovoltaic-thermal generator is built, analysed and characterized. Models for the electrical and thermal behaviour of the module are developed and validated experimentally. Applying a thermal resistances approach the results from both models are combined. Finally, efficiency electrical and thermal curves are derived from theoretical analysis showing good agreement with experimental measurements.

► A combined domed Fresnel lens – CPC PVT system is designed and characterized.
► Electrical and thermal experiments have been performed.
► CFD analysis has been used to determine thermal characteristic dimensionless numbers.