An Investigation on a Ground Coupled Photovoltaic Thermal (PV/T) Desiccant Cooling and Heating System
Abstract
This study investigates the performance of a novel solar desiccant cooling and heating cycle, that uses ground water as the cooling source and photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) collectors as the heating source, to provide annual space air conditioning (fresh air ventilation, cooling and heating) for an office space in a temperate climate. The system is modelled in TRNSYS with validated components for the desiccant dehumidifier and the PV/T collector using experimental data. System design, sizing and operation to achieve the optimal performance is discussed. The feasibility of the solar desiccant cooling and heating system in providing thermal comfort during the whole year, achieving competitive system performance, while providing energy savings is assessed and compared with conventional compression systems with COP of 3, 6 and 9.