Operational strategies for a photovoltaic-thermal system integrated with an electric air-to-water heat pump

In this study, operational strategies are investigated for an air-based photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) system integrated with a domestic air-to-water heat pump. The PV-T system is used to simultaneously generate electricity and heat ambient air, which serves as the heat source for the heat pump. By utilising a variable-speed fan to regulate airflow, the PV-T system outlet temperature is adjusted, and the focus is on how different outlet temperatures impact the PVT system electrical and thermal efficiency, heat pump performance, and overall electricity requirements for heating. The performance of the integrated system is assessed for a case study of a household application in north Italy. The optimal PV-T outlet temperature is found to be between 30 – 35 °C, resulting in only 5% less electricity production than an equivalent PV system with equal nominal electricity capacity, while reducing overall electricity required for heating by over 15% compared to PV-integrated heat pumps.