Computational Study of Photovoltaic Thermal System with Different Absorber Configuration – Review

Abstract

In Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) systems, absorber configuration plays an important role in improving the overall performance of the system. A PVT system all together generates electrical and thermal energy by cooling the photovoltaic panel using a working fluid. The electrical efficiency of PV panels decreases with an increase in operating temperature. In the present work, a computational analysis of a water-based PVT system is carried out using different aluminum absorber configurations such as Spiral, Serpentine, and Wavy designs. The study is carried out using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation in ANSYS FLUENT to evaluate thermal and electrical performance. The results help identify the most efficient absorber configuration for improved heat transfer and overall energy conversion efficiency.

Introduction

The increasing global energy demand and environmental problems caused by fossil fuels have accelerated the adoption of renewable energy sources, especially solar energy, which is abundant and environmentally friendly. Solar energy can be converted into thermal energy through solar thermal systems or electrical energy through photovoltaic (PV) systems. However, conventional PV panels convert only 15–20% of solar energy into electricity, while the remaining energy becomes heat. This heat raises the temperature of the PV module, reducing its electrical efficiency.

To address this issue, Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) systems have been developed. A PVT system combines a PV panel with a thermal collector at the backside, where a circulating fluid (such as water) absorbs excess heat. This process reduces the panel temperature, improves electrical efficiency, and simultaneously produces useful thermal energy.

The study focuses on the computational and experimental analysis of different absorber configurations in a water-based PVT system. The system consists of key components such as a photovoltaic panel, aluminium thermal absorber, water flow channel, and inlet–outlet piping system. Three absorber designs were developed using CAD software: spiral, serpentine, and wavy configurations. Computational analysis was performed using ANSYS FLUENT, which involved geometry creation, meshing, defining material properties, applying boundary conditions, and solving fluid flow and heat transfer equations.

The main objectives of the PVT system include reducing PV panel temperature, improving electrical efficiency, utilizing waste heat, increasing overall energy conversion efficiency, and promoting sustainable renewable energy systems.

PVT systems have several applications, including residential water heating, industrial heating, solar drying, space heating, hybrid renewable energy systems, and energy supply for commercial buildings.

The literature review highlights various studies on PVT systems focusing on absorber design, coolant flow rate, and thermal performance. Previous research shows that spiral and grid channel absorbers improve heat transfer, while higher coolant flow rates help reduce PV temperature and enhance efficiency. Studies also emphasize that absorber material, geometry, and operating conditions significantly influence system performance. Water-based PVT collectors generally provide higher thermal efficiency than air-based systems due to better heat removal capability.

Conclusion

Based on the reviewed studies from different authors, it is observed that absorber geometry, material selection, and coolant flow configuration significantly influence overall system performance. Proper cooling of PV panels reduces surface temperature, which directly enhances electrical efficiency while simultaneously improving thermal output. It is also concluded that optimized absorber geometry and controlled flow parameters are key factors in enhancing the performance of photovoltaic thermal systems.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2026 Nixon Kocharekar, Kiran Thakur, Mahesh Tanpure, Rahul Tambat, Jitendra Satpute. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.