Glossary
What is a PV-T (Photovoltaic Thermal)?
Hybrid solar panels that generate both electricity and heat simultaneously
PV-T (Photovoltaic Thermal) panels combine solar PV cells with a solar thermal collector in a single unit. They generate electricity like standard solar panels while simultaneously capturing heat from the sun to warm water for your heating system.
Where it wins
- Generates electricity and heat from one panel
- More energy per square metre than PV alone
- Cooling the PV cells improves electrical efficiency
- Ideal where roof space is limited
Where it struggles
- Higher cost per panel than standard solar PV
- More complex plumbing and installation
- Fewer UK installers experienced with PV-T
- Limited product range compared to standard PV panels
How it works
01
Sunlight hits the PV-T panel surface
02
PV cells generate electricity from photons
03
A fluid circulating beneath the cells absorbs remaining heat
04
Warm fluid heats your hot water cylinder or supplements heating
PV-T (Photovoltaic Thermal): common questions
What is a PV-T (Photovoltaic Thermal)?
Hybrid solar panels that generate both electricity and heat simultaneously
How does a PV-T (Photovoltaic Thermal) work?
PV-T (Photovoltaic Thermal) panels combine solar PV cells with a solar thermal collector in a single unit. They generate electricity like standard solar panels while simultaneously capturing heat from the sun to warm water for your heating system.
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