Photovoltaic chimney: Thermal modeling and concept demonstration for integration in buildings

This work presents the concept of a photovoltaic (PV)‐powered solar chimney. We modeled and experimentally studied the integration of a PV system within a naturally ventilated façade (NVF), attempting to use the inherent cavity as a ventilation channel to transfer heat. Thermodynamic models were created to study the thermal and, therefore, the electrical performance of a PV system installed at different positions within the cavity of the NVF. An experimental setup of the PV chimney was manufactured to validate the computational models. Results show low root mean square error (RMSE) values for the prediction of the mass flow and the temperature of the different materials considered in the chimney. A basic sensitivity analysis was performed to find the best position of the PV modules within the chimney for a three‐story household in the Netherlands. Optimization showed that with a cavity depth of 0.2 m with PV modules located at the front layer, the electric annual yield is maximized. For the same cavity depth, placing the modules in the middle significantly increases heat flow production, albeit with a reduction on electrical performance. This work presents a thermal model for simulation of a building‐integrated solar chimney. Experimental data were obtained for validation. The model can be used to accurately predict all the surface temperatures and air mass flow. A sensitivity analysis for the best location of the PV modules was performed. An optimum cavity depth of 0.2 m was found. Electricity generation was maximum if the modules were placed as front layer, and heat flow was increased when placed at the center of the cavity.