PVT Heat Pump System Retrofits Buildings
Why this is here: The solar-assisted energy tower heat pump saved CNY 187,300 ($28,263) in natural gas costs compared to conventional systems, demonstrating potential for long-term economic benefits.
Researchers developed a photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) driven tower heat pump for building retrofits. The system underwent testing at a hotel in Huaihua City, Hunan Province, China. Scientists evaluated four heating configurations, pairing the heat pump with boilers and air-source heat pumps.
The study also assessed four operational modes to optimize winter heating performance. These modes included boiler assistance at the condenser or evaporator, air-source heat pump integration, and solar water heating. Thermodynamic analysis showed the evaporator-side boiler and solar-assisted systems achieved the highest coefficients of performance at 1.904 and 1.891, respectively.
Techno-economic analysis revealed the evaporator-side boiler system saved $26,902 in natural gas. The solar-assisted system saved $28,263, despite slightly increased electricity use. Researchers published their findings in Energy Reports.