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Environmental life-cycle assessment of building-integrated concentrating photovoltaic/thermal systems consisting of cylinders filled with dielectric fluids

Author

Listed:
  • Lamnatou, Chr.
  • Moreno, A.
  • Riverola, A.
  • Maestro, S.
  • Chemisana, D.

Abstract

Innovative solar panels for building-integrated concentrating photovoltaic/thermal applications have been developed at the University of Lleida, in Spain. The modules consist of cylinders filled with deionised water or isopropyl alcohol and the solar cells are immersed in these liquids. This study aims at analysing the environmental performance of these systems using life-cycle assessment (cumulative energy demand; global warming potential), ecoinvent database/SimaPro software and ICE (inventory of carbon and energy). Considering both configurations and their additional components, the major part of the cylinders (polymethyl methacrylate), the metallic frames (stainless steel), the PV cells (mono-Si; passivated emitter and rear contact), the liquid mix/isopropyl alcohol, the motors and the motor-support structures show the highest environmental impacts. The impact varies between 411 and 547 kg CO2.eq per m2. Recycling of certain materials offers an impact reduction of 80–82 kg CO2.eq/m2. Regarding energy and greenhouse-gas payback time, multiple scenarios have been examined (with/without recycling; cities: Barcelona, Genoa, Lisbon). The values range between 2.7 and 8.2 years, i.e. lower in comparison to system lifespan (15 years). In most scenarios, there is a difference of around one year between the water-based configuration and the one with isopropyl alcohol (the water-based option shows lower values).

Suggested Citation

  • Lamnatou, Chr. & Moreno, A. & Riverola, A. & Maestro, S. & Chemisana, D., 2025. "Environmental life-cycle assessment of building-integrated concentrating photovoltaic/thermal systems consisting of cylinders filled with dielectric fluids," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 255(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:255:y:2025:i:c:s096014812501482x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.123818
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    References listed on IDEAS

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