Thermodynamic analysis and multi-objective optimization of a modified solar trigeneration system for cooling, heating and power using photovoltaic-thermal and flat plate collectors

Most solar polygeneration systems use a single solar source to power the system. Despite their importance, dual -source systems received less attention. To address this gap, this study aims to analyze a new polygeneration arrangement that combines photovoltaic thermal (PVT) and flat plate collector (FPC). A detailed thermodynamic and economic analysis is conducted for a newly designed cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) system powered by solar energy for domestic applications. PVT and FPC collectors, with an ejector-vapor-compression refrigeration cycle that is equipped with a booster compressor, are used in the proposed system. The key goal of using a PVT with FPC panel in a series configuration is to achieve maximum electrical and thermal efficiencies. The effects of various factors on the system performance, including booster pressure ratio, R600a, and R290 refrigerants, PVT-FPC cycle water flow rate, and solar irradiation, are investigated. The multi-objective optimization results show that energy and exergy efficiency, payback period, and internal rate of return are 90.15%, 12.46%, 4.025years, and 26.67%, respectively. The results showed that using a booster compressor significantly increases the system performance by 96.34% in coefficient of performance (COP), 55.1% in exergy efficiency, and 121.9% in net output power. This optimum system also prevents the release of 2504 kg of carbon dioxide into the environment.