Review of research, development and application of photovoltaic/thermal water systems

Among the many techniques for obtaining heat and electricity, solar thermal collectors, photovoltaic (PV) technology and PV/thermal (PV/T) technology have a very important place. The PV/T collectors enable the simultaneous conversion of solar radiation into thermal and electrical energy in a single device, with better space utilization and cost efficiency during construction. Specially designed PV/T collectors can replace the outer walls or roof covers and can be widely used in private houses, flat complexes, hospitals, schools, tourist and other objects for water heating and electrical energy generation. Due to their great application potential, hybrid collectors have been the subject of very intensive scientific research and technical development for many years. In this review article, the focus is on the research, development and application of the PV/T water systems in the last 10 years. The main task of researchers and manufacturers is to increase the efficiency of PV modules and thermal absorbers, using new materials and design types as well as their proper integration into the PV/T collector. It is also necessary to reduce the cost of these systems and make themmore competitive in the market. In addition, the importance of PV/T systems is in providing energy in clean and environmentally friendly ways.