@article{Wang2026, 
author = {Gang Wang and Huangxia Shi and Haobai Zhong},
title = {Desgin and Performance Optimization of A Novel Photovoltaic Thermal System Based on Air-Finned Cooling: An Analytical Study},
year = {2026},
journal = {Power and Energy Future},
volume = {1},
number = {2},
pages = {9650015},
keywords = {Air-source heat pump, photovoltaic-thermal component, forced air cooling, response surface methodology, non-uniform arrangement, thermoelectric performance},
url = {https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.26599/PEF.2026.9650015},
doi = {10.26599/PEF.2026.9650015},
abstract = {This numerical study aims to optimize the performance of a photovoltaic-thermal (PV/T) component in a “solar energy + air-source heat pump” cogeneration system to promote green and low-carbon energy transition. For forced air-cooled PV/T components, the finite volume method was used to simulate fin structures and layouts. First, four fin shapes (circular, elliptical, square, and rectangular) were compared. At 3 m/s, the circular fin gave the lowest silicon layer temperature (TSi = 42.28 °C). Using response surface methodology with TSi and average Nusselt number (Nu) as targets, the optimal fin diameter and arrangement were identified. Maximizing electrical efficiency (19.17%) favors TSi as target, whereas maximizing thermal efficiency (75.52%) favors Nu. To mitigate non-uniform X-direction temperature distribution, seven non-uniform layouts were proposed. Case 8 (alternating arrangement) further reduced TSi to 40.63 °C (0.15 °C lower than the response-surface optimum) and achieved an electrical efficiency of 19.75%. Numerical evaluation confirms that the non-uniform fin layout outperforms traditional uniform designs, offering a new technical solution for solar-air source heat pump applications.}
}