Combined Building Integrated PV/Thermal (BIPV/T) Collector with Two-stageVariable Capacity Air Source Heat Pump for Net-Zero Energy Building Applications Year One

Building Integrated Photovoltaic/Thermal (BIPV/T) systems are arrays of photovoltaic panels integrated into the building envelope facades and roofs that produce electricity and incorporate the additional function of recovering useful thermal energy. The energy can be used for space, domestic water heating or air conditioning. Recuperating heat from the BIPVjT system improves electrical efficiency and reduces the temperature of PV modules resulting in extended life expectancy of the panels. BIPV/T systems also improve the aesthetic exterior appearance of the building. Moreover, BIPV allows the utilization of PV technology to generate electricity without incurring the additional cost of the land, which is important in urban areas because the cost of land is significant in these areas. The project will help industrial partners to incorporate state-of-the-art solar-thermal technology into their energy systems thus providing them competitive edge as compared to companies that provide only PV systems.

Faculty Supervisor:

Alan Fung

Student:

Partner:

Toronto Atmospheric Fund

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

Toronto Metropolitan University

Program: