Thermodynamic analyses of a novel hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (PV/T) module assisted vapor compression refrigeration system

Buildings have a respectable share of global energy consumption and it is well-known that refrigeration, heating and air conditioning systems have crucially contributed to this share. Therefore, even a small improvement in these systems has a noteworthy potential in globally saving energy. Accordingly, the performance of Photovoltaic-Thermal module-assisted vapor compression refrigeration system (PV/T-VCRS) has been handled in the present research. PV/TVCRS has been integrated with PV module, refrigeration system, and their hybrid. Additionally, different from the conventional superheating methods, superheating has been performed with a PV/T module in this work. In order to discuss the system performance, and observe the differences between conventional and modified hybrid systems, energy and exergy analyzes have been applied. In the results, the average PV module surface temperature in PV module and PV/T-VCRS is recorded to be 56.16 degrees C and 40.93 degrees C, respectively. This case leads to a direct increment in PV module electrical efficiency. Electrical efficiency, average electrical efficiency in PV module, and PV/T-VCRS are calculated to be 13.49% and 14.69%, respectively. The average COP values are found to be 5.23 for VCRS, and 5.68 for PV/T-VCRS. Total exergy destruction in VCRS and PV/TVCRS has been calculated to be 175.85 W and 443 W. On the other hand, the exergy efficiency is found to be 50.79% in VCRS and 60.73% in PV/T-VCRS. In the conclusion, it is well-noticed that hybrid PV/T-VCRS presented promising results in terms of electrical efficiency, COP, energy, and exergy analyses as compared to those of the conventional system.