Are you planning to shift to solar energy? Then, installing a solar panel will be the appropriate step. Solar PVT panels have become quite popular from the variety of available products. These panels offer you the functionality of generating electricity and hot water.
Sounds amazing, right? These panels are also energy efficient and will enable you to reduce your electric bills. Harnessing the power of the mighty sun, you can enjoy green energy via PV-T solar panels. However, it is vital to understand the technical details before purchasing one.
This post will discuss how these panels work, their benefits, power consumption, etc. Without further ado, let’s dive into the details!
Contents
Key Takeaways
- PV-T solar panels combine photovoltaic cells and thermal collectors to efficiently generate electricity and hot water, making them a versatile and space-saving choice for clean energy.
- Benefits of PV-T solar panels include cost savings, versatility for portable use, low maintenance, excellent power efficiency, and silent operation.
- Before installing solar panels, consider factors like energy consumption, roof analysis, and government subsidies to ensure a successful and financially feasible installation.
What Are PV-T Solar Panels?
PV-T panels are modern solar panels combining a thermal hybrid and photovoltaic cell. This solar system can absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity efficiently. Moreover, the panels can produce hot water for domestic purposes.
So, the product will be ideal if you want to switch to clean energy and need a water heating system. Buying two separate systems will save you a lot of money, resources and effort.
Many homes in the UK use solar panels to produce electricity, PV-T panels are also gaining popularity. These panels have proven helpful in offices and houses requiring heat and electricity.
So, these panels will be a good option if you aim to upgrade your solar system anytime soon.
How Do PV-T Solar Panels Work?
Solar thermal systems are technically different from the standard solar PV panel.
The system primarily consists of a PV module with embedded photovoltaic cells. When sunlight falls on these cells, they absorb solar energy. It creates electrical charges that move due to an electric field formed in the cells. Further, the movement causes a flow of electricity.
Secondly, some pipes are embedded into a solar thermal collector. A special fluid circulates between the hot water cylinder and tubes. So, when the sunlight falls on the panel, the solar thermal collector absorbs the heat.
A heat exchanger transfers the heat to the liquid and warms it up. It provides usable heat and cools the solar PV panel down. As a result, it helps maximise the electricity generation of the panels.
Benefits of PV-T Solar Panels
Solar thermal systems help reduce your carbon footprint by allowing you to utilise solar power. In contrast, some users might argue that these panels are expensive, but the benefits back up the costs. Let’s look at the advantages in detail.
Save Space and Money
A solar panel will be perfect if you don’t have much space on your rooftop but still require a solar thermal device. These panels don’t occupy much space on any residential rooftop. The system will be suitable for small residences as the PV and solar thermal components are combined.
Moreover, it will save you the expenses of buying separate systems of water heating and solar power generation.
Versatility
If you can get a hold of a portable solar PV thermal energy panel, it’ll be the most versatile device ever. Besides utilising it in your home, you can take it camping or road trips.
Just position it under an area with sufficient sunlight, and you will be good to go!
Low Maintenance
These systems are extremely low maintenance and will continue working for years. So, you can save a lot of repair and maintenance expenses here.
Excellent Power Efficiency
The solar collectors in these systems enable the device to be highly energy efficient during high temperatures. When the external temperature goes beyond 25°C, the thermal collectors begin working to cool the system.
These components capture the heat and cool down the photovoltaic cells. As this functionality prevents overheating, the effectiveness and efficiency of the overall system increase. Moreover, cooling can boost the panel’s efficiency by up to 80%.
So, the cooling functionality enhances the longevity of the solar system.
Silent Operators
Some solar PV systems may produce too much noise and disturb your neighbours. Don’t worry; you won’t have to face these issues with a solar PV-T system. David TV provides electricity and heat while working silently.
Power Generation of Solar PV-T Panels
A solar PV-T system can produce 1500kWh of energy according to the kWp installed. This will be almost 500 Wh of heat and 1000 Wh of electricity. However, this power and heat generation will depend upon the weather.
Moderate to high temperatures are suitable for these PV-T systems. The components are designed in a way that they will generate the required energy without overheating the cells. You can find all these details in the instruction manual with the device.
You can also contact the manufacturer to understand how much energy and heat this device can produce. Some modern systems might have software or an app indicating power generation.
Things to Consider Before Installing Solar Panels
The installation process of solar PVT panels is similar to other standard panels. Positioning them at an angle to receive maximum sunlight would be best.
However, certain factors need consideration for a successful installation. They include terms, conditions, and energy consumption. Check them out!
Your Energy Consumption
Before installing the immersion heater or PV panels, check your consumption. Calculating your daily power utilisation is important to determine the ideal size of the solar panel you’ll need. The most straightforward formula to calculate your daily power usage is –
Power usage = Wattage rating x Time (hours)
This calculation will also help you decide the number of solar panels you’ll require.
Roof Analysis
Whether you or a technician install the panels, analysing the roof is crucial; checking the shape, size, orientation and shade around your roof is important. This will allow you to position the solar panel properly for maximum sunlight absorption.
Further, a roof inspection will also help you understand whether the roof needs repairs. This way, you can fix cracks, damages, or unsafe wires sticking out of the roof.
Government Subsidies
You must understand if this installation will be financially feasible for your home or office. That’s why verifying the government incentives and subsidies provided for solar panel installations is essential.
For example, the EU Renewable Energy Directive offers six incentives for people interested in solar panels. So, you can save up to £1,300 in electric bills and enjoy a 0% VAT on panel installations.
Contact your local government office for more details about these grants and subsidies. The information will allow you to judge whether the decision to purchase the panels is right.
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The Bottom Line
Maintenance is essential to generate heat and electricity through solar thermal panels. Although these devices are hassle-free, you can still strive to keep them clean.
For instance, try to keep the panels free from dirt, dust and grime. It will make the panels absorb sunlight effectively and generate power. Also, clean the other components like the hot water cylinder and heat exchanger.
Always follow the instructions or manufacturer’s guidelines while cleaning the device.
Another great tip to utilise the panels properly is to check their warranty period. Solar panels generally come with a warranty of 25 years or more. Avoid products with a lower warranty period to prevent technical issues in the future.
About the Author
Solar Panels Network stands at the forefront of solar energy solutions, driven by a team of seasoned solar engineers and energy consultants. With over decades of experience in delivering high-quality solar installations and maintenance, we are committed to promoting sustainable energy through customer-centric, tailored solutions. Our articles reflect this commitment, crafted collaboratively by experts to provide accurate, up-to-date insights into solar technology, ensuring our readers are well-informed and empowered in their solar energy decisions.