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Optimizing design and operation of a novel photovoltaic-thermal collector system for minimizing energy use intensity across diverse Chinese climate zones

Author

Listed:
  • Xiao, Yuling
  • Liang, Qian
  • Wang, Chenyu
  • Ma, Qingsong

Abstract

Building-integrated photovoltaic/thermal (BIPV/T) systems enhance energy efficiency, yet climate-specific optimization is challenging. This study systematically optimizes a novel facade-integrated Photovoltaic-Thermal Collector (PV-TC) system, providing electricity and controlled thermal energy, across China's five major climate zones. Using genetic algorithm-driven EnergyPlus/Radiance simulations, optimal PV panel angle (θPV), fan flow rate (Vfan), and winter/summer ventilation setpoints (Twinter/ Tsummer) were determined to minimize annual Energy Use Intensity (EUI). Results reveal distinct climate-dependent optimal parameters. Optimal θPV strongly correlated with latitude, increasing from 31° (lower latitudes) to 69° (Severe Cold Zone), prioritizing winter thermal gain over maximum annual electricity generation in colder regions. Optimal Vfan was high (288 m3/h) in heating-dominated/mixed climates and low (36-108 m3/h) elsewhere. Twinter increased with latitude (18°C-24 °C), while Tsummer remained consistently low (15-21 °C). The optimized PV-TC system achieved substantial annual EUI reductions in all zones compared to a reference model, driven by reduced thermal loads and on-site PV generation. This research underscores the criticality of climate-adaptive optimization for such systems, offering quantitative design guidelines and demonstrating versatile energy-saving potential.

Suggested Citation

  • Xiao, Yuling & Liang, Qian & Wang, Chenyu & Ma, Qingsong, 2026. "Optimizing design and operation of a novel photovoltaic-thermal collector system for minimizing energy use intensity across diverse Chinese climate zones," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 346(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:346:y:2026:i:c:s0360544226003634
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2026.140261
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