Harnessing fuel cell and PVT for cogeneration in buildings: A comparative analysis in different climates

This study compares the performance of two hybrid residential cogeneration systems—a photovoltaic–thermal (PVT) system and a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system. Both systems were integrated with a gas boiler under three distinct climatic conditions: Mediterranean (Amman), semi-continental (Toronto), and temperate seasonal (Tokyo). A two-story single-family home with a 4,500 kWh annual energy demand was simulated in Polysun to evaluate primary energy use, CO 2 emissions, and economic feasibility. The SOFC + boiler system achieved the highest energy efficiency and CO 2 reductions across all climates, with primary energy factors exceeding 4.0 in Amman and Tokyo, and 2.57 in Toronto, alongside annual CO 2 savings above 2,500 kg. While less effective environmentally, the PVT + boiler system showed better economic performance, reaching net present values up to $30,765 and generation costs as low as $0.23/kWh. Climate strongly influenced system outcomes: colder climates favored SOFC performance due to higher thermal efficiency, while sunnier climates enhanced PVT output. These findings close a research gap, offering climate-based insights to advance global low-carbon residential energy strategies. • Hydrogen-hybrid cogeneration evaluated for residential heat and power. • SOFC + boiler and PVT + boiler compared in Amman, Toronto, and Tokyo climates. • SOFC achieves the highest efficiency and CO 2 savings; PVT excels economically. • Warm climates favor PVT output; cold climates boost SOFC thermal performance. • Climate strongly shapes techno-economic and environmental system rankings.