Air-based hybrid photovoltaic/thermal systems: A review

In recent years, a number of Photovoltaic/Thermal (PV/T) air designs were tested and investigated. However, it is challenging to assess whether a sophisticated design will be significantly more efficient than a basic one. This paper intends to outline different investigations conducted over the last years on photovoltaic-thermal technology. Findings from theoretical and experimental works, aiming to improve the efficiency of this technology regarding electrical and thermal power, are presented and discussed. Possible applications and future development of these technologies are also addressed.