4E analysis of photovoltaic thermal collector-based tri-generation system with adsorption cooling: Annual simulation under Moroccan climate conditions

• Published in: Renewable energy Vol. 221; p. 119828
• Main Authors: Mortadi, M., El Fadar, A., Achkari Begdouri, O.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.02.2024
• Subjects: Adsorption cooling; Economic feasibility; Environmental assessment; Exergy performance; Photovoltaic thermal collector; Sustainability index; Environmental assessment; Photovoltaic thermal collector; Adsorption cooling; Economic feasibility; Sustainability index; Exergy performance
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2023.119828

Using solar photovoltaic thermal technology for tri-generation systems has gained increased interest. However, there is a dearth of literature on the assessment of this solar system integrated with adsorption chiller from a holistic 4E perspective. Hence, energy, exergy, economic and environmental analyses are performed along with sustainability assessment in Moroccan regions. The results revealed that the solar tri-generation system exhibited a promising performance, especially in hot desert region, achieving an energy efficiency of 50.07% due to the high insolation. The exergy analysis proved superior energy production quality in cold Mediterranean region, with an exergy efficiency of 15 %. Economically, the system could be considered cost-effective with a levelized cost of production reaching $0.074/$0.059 per kWh and a discounted payback period of 17.31/15.12 years in cold Mediterranean/hot desert regions. Moreover, in hot desert region, the system could mitigate 3.46 tCO2/m2 of solar collector, while in cold Mediterranean region it exhibits the best sustainability index of 1.18 due to high-quality energy production. Overall, the paper emphasizes the need for further research and advancement of this technology for a sustainable environment. Besides, it aims to offer engineers and researchers valuable insights into the potential of photovoltaic thermal-based tri-generation systems, especially in the building sector.