MODELLING OF A CLOSE-COUPLED PHOTOVOLTAIC HEAT PUMP

摘要

The close coupling of a conventional compression heat pump evaporator with photovoltaic modules is proposed, thus ensuring a higher power generating efficiency from the PV modules than would be the case in conventional installations. The power generated is used to power the heat pump compressor for the generation of domestic hot water in cool northern latitude climates. A mathematical model of the plant is described and the model is applied to a system scaled at 6kW ― capable of generating all hot water needs of a large family home with a surplus available for space heating when needed. Results show that the plant is capable of generating all such energy needs in summer, with a significant power surplus, and about 40% of these needs on sunny winter days.