PVthermal

PVthermal, often written as PV/T, is a solar energy technology that combines photovoltaic electricity generation with thermal heat collection in a single system. A PVthermal setup uses a photovoltaic module paired with a heat-collection loop or airflow path to remove heat from the PV cells, delivering both electrical energy and usable thermal energy.

Two common configurations are PV/T liquid and PV/T air. In liquid systems, a coolant such as water or glycol runs behind the PV cells through a plate or microchannels, absorbing heat that can be stored or used. In air systems, a flow of air is circulated to carry away heat, producing heated air for space heating or ventilation. Some designs place cooling channels directly behind the PV cell or integrate them into the module.

PV cells operate more efficiently at lower temperatures, so removing heat can increase electrical output compared with a standard PV module. The captured heat provides an additional energy stream, potentially reducing the need for separate solar thermal collectors. The combination is particularly attractive where simultaneous electricity and hot water or space heating are valuable.

The total energy yield depends on climate, load profile, and system design. PV/T often incurs higher capital costs and pumping or fan energy, and may exhibit lower electrical efficiency margins than a stand-alone PV system. The overall performance should be assessed against separate PV and solar thermal systems for a given application.

PV/T systems are installed in buildings, campuses, and research facilities, with ongoing development to improve heat transfer, reduce costs, and simplify integration with storage. They are most viable in regions with strong solar input and meaningful heat demand.