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Design of a Hybrid Photovoltaic Thermal System

April 22, 2010

Project Goal

The goal of this project was to create a feasible and efficient PVT hybrid solar system. By lowering its operating temperature using water as a coolant, the efficiency of the overall system would be increased. Additionally, the heat picked-up by this coolant can be used to lower the energy required to heat water in a residential setting.

Societal Impacts

By increasing the efficiencies of alternative energy systems, many of the world's most pressing problems can be alleviated. These problems include global warming, pollution and smog production from coal and oil buring power plants, and increasing America's dependence on foreign energy. This cogenerative system would be a simple solution for the home or business owner with a mind for saving the environment, saving their local economy and improving domestic security, and saving some money along the way.

Solar Panel Assembly with Heat Exchanger

Under side of Heat Exchanger revealing Junction Box

Finished Assembly with Hose Connection and Testing Circuit