PV-based energy conversion systems

This contribution is a comprehensive introduction and discussion on various technical and operational aspects of solar energy systems, primarily focusing on photovoltaic-based energy conversion systems, namely, sole photovoltaic (PV), photovoltaic and thermal (PV/T) and concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) systems. The theory behind the working principle of each PV-based energy conversion system is extensively discussed. A critical evaluation of the current PV, PV/T and CPV technologies and their marketing dimensions is performed for various applications. The solar-to-product conversion efficiencies are also described including the thermodynamic conversion limits. Thermodynamic analyses of these PV-based energy conversion systems are undertaken through energy and exergy approaches, and some examples and a case study are presented to illustrate how their efficiencies are affected by varying operating and environmental conditions such as temperature and dusting. The future directions section also covers emerging techniques and possible solutions to enhance solar to hydrogen production processes.