Effect of energy matrices on life cycle cost analysis of partially covered photovoltaic compound parabolic concentrator collector active solar distillation system

This paper presents the life cycle cost analysis of partially covered photovoltaic thermal (PVT) compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) collector integrated solar distillation system known as PVT-CPC active solar distillation system by incorporating the effect of energy payback period. The thermal model of the system has been developed. The number of PVT-CPC collectors and mass flow rate has been optimized. The annual yield, EPF and LCCE have been found to be higher by 5%, 12.73% and 22.22% respectively for double slope than single slope PVT-CPC active solar distillation system at 0.14m depth of water. However, production cost of water at 5% rate of interest and EPBT have been found to be lower by 10.09% and 17.98% respectively for double slope PVT-CPC active solar distillation system. It is inferred that double slope performs better than single slope PVT-CPC active solar distillation system based on annual yield if depth of water is less than 0.19m and vice-versa. The proposed system is self sustainable and it can meet the daily requirement of potable water on commercial level as well as DC electrical power during sunshine hours. •Single and double slope PVT-CPC active solar distillation systems have been analyzed.•They have been compared on the basis of energy matrices.•Production cost of water and cost of electricity gain have been evaluated.•Number of PVT-CPC collectors and mass flow rate has been optimized.•Exergy has been calculated on the basis of entropy concept.