How do you measure and compare the energy and environmental benefits of different PVT technologies?

1 Energy performance

The energy performance of a PVT system depends on several factors, such as the type of solar cell, the design of the thermal collector, the operating temperature, the integration with the building, and the load profile. To evaluate and compare the energy performance of different PVT systems, you need to use standardized testing methods and metrics, such as the electrical and thermal efficiency, the power and heat output, the energy yield, and the performance ratio. You also need to account for the environmental conditions, such as the solar irradiance, the ambient temperature, and the wind speed, that affect the PVT performance.

2 Environmental impact

The environmental impact of a PVT system depends on the life cycle of the system, from the production of the materials and components, to the installation and operation, to the end-of-life disposal or recycling. To assess and compare the environmental impact of different PVT systems, you need to use life cycle assessment (LCA) methods and indicators, such as the embodied energy, the carbon footprint, the water consumption, the land use, and the pollution emissions. You also need to consider the environmental benefits of the PVT system, such as the avoided emissions and energy savings from displacing conventional energy sources.

3 Economic viability

The economic viability of a PVT system depends on the initial investment, the operation and maintenance costs, the energy savings, and the revenue from selling electricity or heat. To estimate and compare the economic viability of different PVT systems, you need to use financial analysis methods and parameters, such as the net present value (NPV), the internal rate of return (IRR), the payback period, the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), and the profitability index. You also need to take into account the market conditions, such as the electricity and heat prices, the incentives and subsidies, and the regulations and policies, that influence the PVT profitability.

4 Technical feasibility

The technical feasibility of a PVT system depends on the compatibility and reliability of the system components, the integration and installation requirements, and the operation and control strategies. To evaluate and compare the technical feasibility of different PVT systems, you need to use engineering analysis methods and criteria, such as the performance and durability tests, the system simulation and optimization, the design and sizing guidelines, and the quality and safety standards. You also need to consider the technical challenges and opportunities of the PVT system, such as the thermal management, the electrical matching, the system integration, and the innovation potential.

5 Social acceptance

The social acceptance of a PVT system depends on the perception and preference of the stakeholders, such as the customers, the installers, the utilities, the regulators, and the public. To measure and compare the social acceptance of different PVT systems, you need to use social science methods and tools, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, case studies, and participatory methods. You also need to address the social barriers and drivers of the PVT system, such as the awareness and knowledge, the trust and confidence, the attitudes and values, and the norms and behaviors.

6 Comparison framework

To measure and compare the energy and environmental benefits of different PVT technologies, you need to use a comprehensive and consistent comparison framework that covers all the aspects mentioned above. You also need to define the comparison objectives, scope, boundaries, assumptions, data sources, and indicators. A comparison framework can help you identify the strengths and weaknesses of different PVT technologies, as well as the trade-offs and synergies among them. It can also help you select the most suitable PVT technology for your specific application and context.