Solar PVT Technology and Its Commercial Applications: A Review

Solar energy is also called ‘future energy’ because it is easily available and the cost of converting it to electricity is less as compared to other renewable sources of energy. Solar energy is converted to electrical energy by using PV panels. However, PV panels are less efficient at higher temperatures. Therefore, to improve their efficiency, the excessive heat generated inside the PV panel has to be removed and, if possible, a system should be developed which uses this heat further in various applications. Hence the photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) system is designed to generate both electricity and heat simultaneously. This article presents a review of the various types of PVT collectors, commercial PVT products, and the current status of the PVT technology in India.