Modeling and simulation of a photovoltaic thermal-compound thermoelectric ventilator system

This paper presents a dynamic model for a photovoltaic thermal-compound thermoelectric ventilator (PVT-TEV) system, in which photovoltaic thermal (PVT) collector generates electricity in winter and simultaneously pre-heats the fresh air to achieve comprehensive utilization of solar energy. The preheated fresh air is further heated by the thermoelectric ventilator (TEV) and then pumped into the indoor room. The PVT-TEV system has the function of the sunshade, power generation, waste heat recovery and fresh air supply for buildings. The model is validated by the data collected from PVT-TEV system under real climate conditions. The results show that the simulated value is in good agreement with the experimental value. The performance of the PVT-TEV system under different working condition is also analyzed by using the model. Increasing the fresh air mass flow rate can improve the electrical and heating performance of PVT-TEV system. However, the total coefficient of performance (COPtotal) of PVT-TEV system does not grow when the fresh airflow rate rises from 93 m(3)/h to 123 m(3)/h and 153 m(3)/h due to the increase of fan power. The heat gain of the TEV system and the fresh air outlet temperature of the PVT-TEV increase with the working current. The growth of indoor temperature can improve the performance of PVT-TEV system. The model of PVT-TEV system proposed in this paper provides a foundation for the structural design and annual performance optimization of PVT-TEV system.