Solar Photovoltaic-Thermal Integration with Ground Source Heat Pump Systems for Single-Family Houses

Background

As the demand for high-efficiency renewable energy solutions continues to grow, integrating solar technology with advanced heating systems presents significant potential. Solar Photovoltaic-Thermal (PVT) collectors stand out as an innovative approach, simultaneously generating electricity and capturing heat to maximize solar energy usage. When combined with Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) systems, which harness the earth's stable thermal energy, these hybrid systems can deliver heating and cooling with improved energy efficiency.

Beyond their dual-function capabilities, PVT collectors offer an added advantage in GSHP integration by aiding in borehole regeneration. By transferring surplus heat to the ground, PVT collectors can help stabilize ground temperatures, reducing thermal depletion and potentially lowering the required borehole length. This has the potential to reduce installation costs and enhance long-term system performance

Despite this potential, the comparative economic and technical impacts of various PVT collector designs remain underexplored. This thesis seeks to address this gap by evaluating multiple commercially available PVT collectors, analyzing their performance and regenerative effects when integrated with GSHP systems for single family houses. Supported by the Swedish Energy Agency as part of the Smart Reno SE project and in collaboration with several industry partners, this research aims to advance practical, scalable solutions for the Nordic market.

Thesis goal and structure

The primary objective of this thesis is to evaluate the impact of different PVT collector designs on the economic and technical performance of PVT+GSHP systems in single-family houses. This will involve:

Conducting a comprehensive literature review on solar PVT and GSHP systems to establish a solid foundation for understanding the research topic.
Developing a PVT+GSHP model in TRNSYS, leveraging an existing model designed for multi-family houses, with necessary adjustments to meet the requirements specific to single-family houses.
Performing a techno-economic comparison of different commercially available PVT collectors to identify which designs offer the best performance and economic viability.

Expected outcomes

This work is anticipated to culminate in a master's thesis report that will serve as the foundation for a scientific publication. The findings may be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal (such as Solar Energy, Solar Energy Advances, or Applied Energy) or presented at a conference like the Solar World Congress 2025. Therefore, this opportunity is particularly well-suited, but not limited to, students considering pursuing a PhD after completing their studies.

Proposed time schedule

The study is expected to start in January 2024 (wk. 3) at the latest, and expected to be completed in June 2024 (wk. 23). Intermediate reports will be due at 1/3 and 2/3 intervals, or as needed.

How to apply

This thesis is ideal for a motivated student who has a strong interest in advancing novel solar heating applications in the European market, particularly within the Nordic region. If you are interested in this project, please send your CV together with your transcript of records to fbeltran@kth.se. If you have a fellow student you would like to work with (which is highly encouraged), you can also apply together and we can adjust the scope of the thesis accordingly. The position will be closed as soon as a matching candidate(s) is found.