Combined photovoltaic/thermal system studies

Modelling of concentrating combined collectors (those that produce both electricity from solar cells as well as thermal energy from the sun's rays) is discussed. Particular attention is devoted to accurately modelling the IV curves of present day 2 x 2 cm silicon cells designed for concentration. Also discussed is modelling of storage batteries, regulators and inverters all of which are usually found in photovoltaic systems. The models devised were formalized in subroutines that are compatible with TRNSYS. Some preliminary systems studies for both constant collector inlet fluid temperature and floating temperature systems are reported.