Parametric Analysis and Optimization of a Novel Photovoltaic Trombe Wall System with Venetian Blinds : Experimental and Computational Study

This study investigates the parametric electrical and thermal performance of a novel photovoltaic trombe wall with a venetian blind system (PVTW-VB). A complete 3D CFD model is developed to identify the best parametric configuration for the PVTW-VB, which is then validated by experimental data for the optimal configuration. The experimental results indicated that the CFD model could accurately predict the operational performance of the PVTW-VB system. According to the findings, the spacing of the VB inside the air gap, the VB angle, and the air flow rate of the PVTW should be 0.09 m, 60°, and 0.2 m/s; respectively to achieve optimal performance of the proposed PVTW-VB system in semi-arid climatic conditions. The electrical power generation of the PVTW was 8.6% lower than that of the PVTW-VB with an added benefit of 3.2 °C decrease in average PV panel surface temperature.Investigations of the thermal regulation were carried out for three configurations of test room conditions (i.e., a normal test room, test room with the PVTW and test room with the PVTW-VB). The study revealed that VB integration with the PVTW system leads to decrease in the thermal load of the test room