The thermal exchanger located behind the hybrid PVT panels is able to draw heat from both the panels and the surrounding air, which helps to prevent overheating of the PV system and ensures that electricity production remains at its best
A study, Solar Panels Warm Up and Cool Down Cities, published recently in the journal Nature Cities, found that complete coverage in a city with rooftop photovoltaic solar panels could increase daytime temperature up to 1.5 degrees Celsius during peak summer and can decrease temperature at night up to 0.6 degrees Celsius.
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Ansar Khan, a professor at the University of Calcutta and the lead researcher of the study, explained that even though solar PVs are crucial for green energy, many solar plants only have a 20 per cent efficiency, resulting in excess heat being dispersed into the environment. He suggested that replacing traditional solar panels with photovoltaic thermal (PVT) systems can help mitigate negative impacts by decreasing the emission of surplus heat into the environment and enhancing energy efficiency. The research results do not oppose PVs but indicate the requirement for improved efficiency.
The thermal exchanger located behind the hybrid PVT panels is able to draw heat from both the panels and the surrounding air, which helps to prevent overheating of the PV system and ensures that electricity production remains at its best. He mentioned that the integrated system not only improves PV performance but also reduces urban heat island effect by lowering panel temperatures and capturing extra heat, leading to energy savings and sustainable energy solutions. He said that additional changes could include placing PVs on green roofs or roofs with reflective material or paint.
The research said that solar panel installations can also increase the amount of heat released in the atmosphere, which may impact local wind patterns and delay the onset of sea breezes. According to the research, the additional heat also mixes the air at lower levels, which raises the height of the planetary boundary layer over 600 meters, improving the air quality and reducing air pollution from the ground.
According to the researchers, the data was collected from five cities: Kolkata, Sydney, Austin, Athens and Brussels. They also added a review of 30 case studies from building level to city-scale installations around the world.