Introduction
As the energy transition gathers pace, renewable energy technologies are evolving rapidly to offer more efficient and versatile solutions. Hybrid solar panel are a perfect example. By combining two renewable energy technologies – solar thermal and photovoltaic – these hybrid solar panels maximize the use of the sun’s rays to produce both electricity and heat. This makes them an ideal solution for buildings seeking greater energy efficiency and a significant reduction in their carbon footprint.
In this article, we’ll explore in detail the concept of hybrid solar panels, how they work, their benefits and challenges, and their potential role in the transition to a greener, more sustainable economy.
What is a hybrid solar panel roof?
Hybrid solar panel combine two technologies to fully harness the sun’s energy:
- Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity.
- Thermal solar panels capture the sun’s heat to produce hot water or heated air, often used for domestic heating or hot water.
This hybrid technology maximizes the use of solar energy by simultaneously producing electricity and heat.
There are two further sub-types of hybrid solar panels: aerovoltaic and hydraulic.
Hybrid aerovoltaic or PV-T air system
The front of the panel contains photovoltaic cells that generate electricity from solar energy.
Then, on the back of the panel, aerovoltaic technology recovers the warm air stored by the panels for use in the home. In winter, it serves for heating; However in summer, it serves as an auxiliary air conditioning supplier. So it ensure ventilation at any time. This technique enables the panels to be cooled, especially during heatwaves, which increases their efficiency.
Hybrid water system
Hybrid water collectors work in a similar way to aerovoltaic systems. The difference is that they use the circulation of water rather than air to operate. This type of panel produces electricity and domestic hot water. In particular, these water-cooled solar panels enable more efficient cooling of the panels, and therefore higher solar panel efficiency.
It is characterized by :
- an efficient cooling system: photovoltaic collectors are equipped with a water-based heat exchanger designed to maximize electricity and hot water production;
- higher yields: the panel’s cooling system gives it a higher yield than a conventional solution.
How does a hybrid solar panel roof work?
1. Electricity production: Photovoltaic component
The photovoltaic (PV) panels used in hybrid systems work in a similar way to traditional solar panels. Photovoltaic cells are made of semiconductor materials such as silicon, which convert sunlight into direct current (DC) via the photovoltaic effect. This current is then transformed into alternating current (AC) by an inverter for use in the building or fed into the electricity grid.
2. Heat production: Thermal component
The thermal component of hybrid solar captures the sun’s heat using a heat transfer fluid (often water or air). This fluid circulates in tubes integrated beneath the photovoltaic panels or in an adjacent structure, absorbing the heat generated by the sun’s rays and the surface of the panels. This heat is then used for :
Water heating (hybrid water systems): Water heated by the system can be used for sanitary purposes (showering, washing up, etc.) or for domestic heating via radiators or underfloor heating.
Air heating (aero-voltaic systems): In some systems, the captured heat is used to warm the ambient air, increasing the thermal comfort of indoor spaces.
3. Cooling photovoltaic panels
One of the indirect benefits of hybrid is that the capture of solar heat can be used to cool photovoltaic panels. Solar panels can lose efficiency when overheated. By removing this excess heat, the thermal component improves the efficiency of the photovoltaic cells, increasing their overall yield.
The benefits of hybrid solar panel roofs
1. Maximized use of solar energy
The main advantage of hybrid solar panels is that they maximize the use of solar energy, producing electricity and heat simultaneously from a single generator. Unlike conventional solar systems, which produce either electricity or heat, hybrid systems produce both simultaneously. This means that the same roof surface can be used to generate two forms of energy, increasing the building’s overall energy efficiency.
2. Lower energy costs
By producing both electricity and heat, hybrid solar panel roofs can significantly reduce energy bills. The electricity generated by photovoltaic panels can be used to power electrical appliances and heating systems, while the heat captured by thermal panels can be used to reduce gas or electricity consumption for domestic heating and hot water.
3. Increasing the efficiency of photovoltaic panels
As mentioned above, one of the most interesting features of hybrid systems is the reduction in overheating of photovoltaic panels. By capturing excess heat, the solar thermal panels enable the photovoltaic cells to operate at optimum temperature, improving their efficiency and extending their lifespan.
4. Reduced carbon footprint
Using a hybrid solar panel roof helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By producing green electricity and heat from a renewable source, buildings reduce their consumption of fossil fuels, thereby helping to combat climate change. The carbon footprint of buildings is therefore significantly reduced, making this solution ideal for those seeking to minimize their environmental impact.
5. Adaptability to local energy needs
Solar hybrid systems can be configured to meet specific building needs. In regions with high heating requirements, the thermal component can be prioritized. Conversely, in regions with high levels of sunshine and increased demand for electricity, photovoltaic panels can play a more central role. This flexibility makes hybrid roofs a versatile solution, capable of adapting to different climatic environments and energy needs.
6. Optimizing available space
Buildings often have limited roof space for the installation of solar systems. With hybrid roofs, this constraint is alleviated, as a single system can produce both electricity and heat. This optimizes the use of space and increases the energy efficiency of the building, without the need for additional installations. This type of panel is ideal for roofs with small or moderate surface areas.
Coût
The price is around €2 to €4 per watt-peak (excluding VAT and installation). It also depends on the type of system (aerovoltaic or hydraulic). An average household needs around 4,000 watt-peak. In this case, a hybrid system will cost between €8,000 and €16,000.
Please note: these prices are purely indicative and may vary from company to company.
Conclusion
Hybrid solar panels represent a significant advance in the field of renewable energies, enabling the co-production of electricity and heat. By combining electricity and solar heat, these systems maximize the energy efficiency of buildings while reducing their carbon footprint. Although they present certain challenges, notably in terms of cost and maintenance, their long-term benefits make them a promising solution for homeowners, businesses and industries looking to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact.
As technologies evolve and costs come down, hybrid solar panel roofs are set to play an increasingly important role in the creation of greener, more energy self-sufficient buildings, contributing to a more sustainable global energy transition.
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