How SolarWall® PV/T Systems Work:
The SolarWall® PV/T technology is a building integrated solution that solves the overheating problems found in most building integrated PV (BIPV) systems by removing the heat from the back of the PV modules.
PV modules are mounted on top of the SolarWall® panels, which act as the PV racking system. The heat is drawn off the back of the PV modules and is ducted into the building's conventional HVAC system where it offsets the heating load.
PV - with SolarWall behind - ensures uniform air cooling around each PV module.
The SolarWall system keeps the air circulating evenly around the PV modules, which can cool the PV modules by as much as 20 degrees C. This can increase the electrical output by 10%.
The hybrid system delivers both heat energy and electricity in usable form.
In warmer weather, dampers are used to direct the heat away from the building if the energy is not required.
Strategic placement of PV modules is important to maximize the cooling benefit. When PV modules get placed in an unbroken line up the slope of a roof, it is difficult to dissipate the heat between the panels and the top part of an array will normally overheat. With the addition of the SolarWall component, small gaps are left between each PV module, further helping to prevent excessive heat build-up.
The technology works with any conventional PV module and can be custom engineered based on site conditions. The electrical and heating outputs of the system are sized based on the energy requirements of the building. The hybrid technology is also available in a modular rooftop version called SolarDuct PV/T.
Consider This: On a sunny day, 100 watts/ft2 of solar radiation shines down on a solar PV array.
- 10-15 watts/ft2 converted into electricity by the PV panels
- 10 watts/ft2 lost due to reflection off the PV glass
- 75-80 watts/ft2 converted into heat energy. With a conventional PV array, this sizable form of energy is not utilized for heating purposes, and in fact decreases the electrical output of the PV if it is not dissipated.
- The SolarWall® / SolarDuct® system recovers half or 35-50 watts/ft2 of thermal energy for heating buildings
SolarWall® and SolarDuct® qualify for Ontario PV racking content for the Feed In Tariff (FIT) program. (9% - 11% depending on category) The Ontario FIT program pays money based on actual energy delivered, not on the name-plate rating of the PV module. SolarWall PV/T and SolarDuct PV/T systems can deliver up to 10% more electrical energy using the same PV modules. Over the 20 year FIT program this additional 10% is like getting an extra 2 years of income. When evaluating PV systems, specify SolarWall® behind.TM For more information on the Ontario FIT program visit www.ontariopv.com.