Study of and tests on a hybrid photovoltaic-thermal collector using concentrated sunlight

Abstract A hybrid prototype photovoltaic-thermal collector using concentrated sunlight was studied theoretically, realized and tested. Reasons are given for choosing this concept. The prototype design is then described and explanations are given for the different technological solutions that we adopted. The test set-up, instrumentation and measurements are described further. The experimental peak electrical and thermal efficiencies are then presented as functions of temperature and concentration ratio and are compared with the efficiencies of specific collectors. Technical feasibility is demonstrated, but economic viability cannot be established at present. Trends for future developments are then indicated.