ABSTRACT
The photo-voltaic (PV) pump-set replaces the conventional 220 Volt AC circulationpump of a solar domestic hot water system. Due to the energy saving on electricity the PV pump-set slightly improves the pay-back period of the total solar system. In comparison with traditional (closed circuit) solar systems the PV-assisted solar system presents an equal, even a little better energy performance. A system as such can be used autonomously in e.g. remote areas, as no grid-connection is needed for the pump and for the system control.
Firstly, the coupling of a PV solar panel, a circulation pump driven by a DC motor and a solar hot water system (closed circuit) is analyzed theoretically. The analysis is based on the measured performance of the actual components. For the PV pump-set a simulation programme is developed which is incorporated with the existing simulation programme for solar systems In this way the yearly heat gains are calculated and the dimensions and type of components optimised.
Secondly this article describes the experience and the practical results of solar systems (closed circuit and drain-back systems). The measurement results are compared with calculated values. Based on parameter studies, design tools were developed. The application of the PV-assisted solar hot water systems is important to northern countries and to southern countries as well.
