Low-Concentration Photovoltaic/Thermal Systems Integrated with Electrical and Thermal Energy Storage: A Review

Abstract The global imperative for energy transition demands advanced, high-efficiency solar energy systems capable of overcoming both the thermal degradation of photovoltaic (PV) cells and the inherent intermittency of solar irradiance. This comprehensive review systematically analyzes low-concentration photovoltaic/thermal (LCPV/T) systems, focusing specifically on water-cooled devices equipped with flat-plate reflector concentrators (FRCs), and their critical integration with electrical energy storage (EES) and thermal energy storage (TES). The key objective lies in a co-optimization strategy aimed at increasing the capacity factor, ensuring load dispatchability, and enhancing the system’s energy autonomy by balancing competing electrical (EES) and thermal (TES) demands. LCPV/T systems effectively achieve high co-generation performance, with total efficiencies frequently reported exceeding 75%. The review provides a deep dive into the thermal management aspects, including detailed fluid dynamics modeling for the heat exchanger, and highlights the technical suitability of the thermal output for decentralized, low-temperature applications such as pool heating, which enhances system relevance for off-grid consumers. Future research must prioritize the development of robust, predictive control strategies to mitigate forecasting uncertainty and achieve high system autonomy, thereby unlocking the full commercial potential of this hybrid technology.

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