Numerical Optimization of Solar Photovoltaic Thermal System Performance and Reliability under Extreme Climate Conditions

Renewable energy based on solar photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) systems is gaining significant attention as an alternative energy source to reduce the global carbon footprint. However, the performance and reliability of these systems can decrease considerably under extreme climatic conditions, such as high and low temperatures and fluctuating humidity levels. Despite this, our understanding of the effects of various controlling parameters and the ability to model and predict thermomechanical degradation based on reliable experimental data require improvements. This project will use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA) to perform numerical modeling of PV/T systems, assessing and optimizing their reliability under varying extreme climate conditions. The insights gained from this work have the potential to guide the development of more reliable PV/T modules suitable for both temperate and tropical climates. These efforts will contribute to the advancement of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ebenezer Ekow Essel

Student:

Partner:

Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Energy and Utilities

University:

Concordia University

Program: