Building Integrated Photovoltaic Thermal (BIPVT)
The BIPVT system is an exciting new technology which merges PV and thermal systems, simultaneously providing both electric and thermal energy. Through this combination, the system also achieves significantly increased electrical performance in hot conditions, due to the thermal energy generation cooling the PV cells. In this way, more energy is generated per unit surface area when compared to separate photovoltaic panels and solar thermal collector’s side-by-side.
Traditional PV systems turn an average of 10 to 20% of the sunlight into electricity. The remainder (80 to 90%) is lost as heat. Also, as PV cells heat up in warm or hot conditions, their performance is reduced.
BIPVT integrates four key elements into one product:
- Roof system
- Photovoltaic cells
- Solar thermal collector
- Insulation
Because of its integration, the BIPVT system leads to substantial savings, replacing conventional building materials and is easy to install reducing installation costs. BIPVT was created with the design of houses and commercial building in mind, and seamlessly joins with metal roofing.
BIPVT is also available with glazing, increasing the maximum temperature from approximately 60°C to 80°C. "BIPVT Unglazed" has a maximum temperature of 60°C. Unglazed has the benefit of higher PV performance than BIPVT glazed, due to lower operating temperatures but a lower temperature of water heating.
Benefits of BIPVT
- Significantly increased electrical performance, due to the thermal energy generation retracting heat from the PV cells.
- Excellent value for money compared to side-by-side PV and SWH modules.
- Medium temperature water heating or cost effective water pre-heating.
- Faster payback than traditional systems.
- A more aesthetically pleasing building integrated alternative to side-by-side solar water heating and PV modules.
- The product is easier and less expensive to install compared to side-by-side modules.
- Low/no maintenance required.
